Improving

Healthcare

Journeys

Through

the

Weston

Patient

Navigation

Program

Receiving a devastating health diagnosis is life-changing; coupled with language barriers, health equity disadvantages, or an unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, it can feel like an insurmountable challenge. For many who depend on Scarborough Health Network’s (SHN) three hospitals — including new Canadians, visible minorities, and seniors — these challenges are daily realities. Yet, with the introduction of dedicated patient navigators, timely support and clarity can replace confusion, fear, and isolation. That is what SHN intends to do through the Weston Patient Navigation Program.

Patient navigators are catalysts for change, transforming healthcare journeys with knowledge, compassion, and unwavering support. They help patients understand their diagnoses, navigate treatment plans, prioritize and coordinate appointments, and provide ongoing emotional support. Their role has shown to help reduce wait-times, increase appointment attendance, and improve adherence to medications and treatment completion for patients. 

In 2023, with support from The Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation, SHN launched the Weston Patient Navigation Program, adding five dedicated patient navigators to guide patients facing complex or life-threatening health challenges, including heart failure, severe wounds, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal and other cancers. This initiative impacts patients directly ensuring they receive expert, personalized support throughout their healthcare journey.

“I love my role and am honoured to work with these patients. This isn’t just a job, it’s a privilege,” says Joy Abbas, a long-time nurse at SHN and the first Weston Patient Navigator for colorectal and other cancers. After Joy lost her nephew to colorectal cancer, she knew first-hand the challenges these patients experience and is able to bring her personal perspective to their care.

“We are here to lend an empathetic ear and a compassionate heart, reminding patients going through a difficult time that they are not alone. My goal is to ensure every patient feels empowered and supported throughout their healthcare experience at SHN,” says Dhanya Damodaran, the Weston Patient Navigator supporting patients with breast cancer – a breast cancer survivor herself.

This patient-centered initiative marks a turning point for SHN and allows the institution to deliver timely, compassionate support that directly improves patient outcomes. By expanding patient navigation programs, healthcare providers can empower more Canadians to overcome barriers and focus on healing – leading to better health outcomes for more Canadians.