Community Connector in La Ronge

Northern Medical Services (NMS) employs a unique team approach, working toward equitable, accessible health care in a geographically and culturally distinct setting. It is a division within the College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. It is a tripartite organization with many stakeholders, all of whom work collaboratively to deliver the best possible care to the communities served in northern Saskatchewan.

Primary Purpose

The Community Connector (Social Prescriber) will work as part of the La Ronge Medical Clinic's interdisciplinary care team to support and advocate for patients’ social, cultural, and practical needs that promote health and well-being. This role will connect individuals and families with community-based resources, programs, and supports, helping to reduce barriers to care, improve patient self-management, and enhance health outcomes. The position will also support the clinic in building partnerships with community organizations and advancing social prescribing initiatives.

Nature of Work:

• Work closely with the clinic’s physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals to identify patients who may benefit from social prescribing;
• Provide feedback to the care team on patient progress and identified service gaps;
• Assist in developing clinic workflows for community connector referrals and follow-up;
• Track referrals, connections made, and outcomes for program evaluation;
• Contribute to quality improvement projects that enhance patient access to social supports;
• Prepare reports for clinic leadership and funding partners on the impact of the role.

Typical Duties:

• Patient Support and Navigation
• Receive referrals from physicians, nurses, and other clinic staff for patients with unmet social needs and hard to reach clients.
• Conduct one-on-one needs assessments, either in person, by phone, or virtually.
• Assist patients to navigate and access community-based programs, services, and supports.
• Provide follow-up to ensure connections are successful and address any barriers.

• Social Prescribing
• Link patients to non-clinical interventions that support health and well-being, such as social and cultural programs, exercise, volunteer opportunities, arts, cultural, and land-based activities, peer support groups.
• Support patients in attending their first activities, when needed (for example, accompaniment, warm handoff).

• Health Equity and Cultural Safety
• Build trust and rapport with patients, with a focus on culturally-safe and trauma-informed approaches.
• Collaborate with Indigenous organizations and Elders to integrate traditional healing, language, and cultural practices into care where appropriate.
• Support reconciliation-based initiatives within the clinic and community.

• Community Relationship-Building
• Maintain an up-to-date directory of local and regional resources.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with local agencies, service providers, and community groups.
• Represent the clinic at community events and inter-agency meetings.

Other duties may be added or modified as required.

Education:

A post-secondary diploma or degree in social services, community development, Indigenous health, addictions counselling, mental health, health care, nursing, or a related field would be preferred. A combination of education and experience may be considered. Current registration with a professional licensing body, if applicable.

Experience:

A minimum of 2 years of experience in a health care setting, counselling and/or community development work is preferred. Awareness of issues in the delivery of medical care to Northern and remote First Nations and Métis communities, served by Northern Medical Services. Possess experience working in and promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. Knowledge of local and regional resources and services in northern Saskatchewan. Understanding of social determinants of health and their impact on wellness.

Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of community resources.
• Understanding of substance abuse disorders.
• Belief in harm reduction philosophy.
• Knowledge of HIV and Hepatitis C would be an asset.
• Knowledge of Woodland Cree, Denesuline or Métis culture and traditions.
• Ability to speak Woodland Cree or Dené would be an asset.
• Valid driver's license and functional working vehicle. Drivers abstract will be required.
• Ability to communicate and build working relationships with clients from diverse social, economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to communicate, collaborate, and maintain effective working relationships with other community agencies and partners in communities served by the La Ronge Medical Clinic.
• Understanding the social determinants of health and their impact on health.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Working knowledge of medical and health issues affecting Indigenous persons.
• Ability to work independently as well as work as a team member.
• Confidence and independence to do home visits on own.
• Self-motivated and ability to work with minimum supervision.
• Able to set good boundaries.
• Knowledge and compatibility with policies and procedures necessary to support patients within Northern Medical Services, SHA, Tribal Councils (especially LLRIB) and Indigenous Services Canada.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to engage diverse populations.
• Cultural safety, humility and anti-racist, with experience working with First Nations, Métis and northern communities.
• Basic computer skills.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Good listening skills.
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) and data tracking.
• Must be bondable.

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Tamara Hominuke at hominuke.nms@usask.ca.

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.