Patient Navigation Network

While many Quebecers face both the challenges of navigating the complexities of the provincial health system and the stress of their medical situation, the PNN represents a significant step toward addressing persistent linguistic barriers faced by English-speakers when accessing care. Language plays a fundamental role across the entire continuum of healthcare, serving as the main channel for communicating symptoms, diagnosis, treatment planning, and following medical instructions. Clear communication—especially when delivered in a patient’s preferred language and in plain terms—is closely associated with greater safety, fewer medical errors, and improved health outcomes.

Through this initiative, patient navigators will be deployed in 11 regions to help individuals better understand and navigate the health and social services system.

“This initiative marks an important milestone in strengthening access to care for English-speaking communities,” shared Jennifer Johnson, Executive Director of CHSSN. “By building a coordinated network of patient navigators, we are reinforcing connections between communities and the health system.”