Are you someone who wants to make a real difference to people living with Parkinson’s disease, by helping them to navigate the healthcare system? Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC) is seeking a Healthcare Navigator to join our team.
Who we are
Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC) is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease and their families. Through a wide range of education and support services, we strive to empower those living with Parkinson’s across the province.
We believe that every person touched by Parkinson's deserves to know that they are not alone in their journey. Our mission is to empower the Parkinson's community in British Columbia by providing resources and services to enable self-management, self-reliance, and self-advocacy. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff offer up-to-date information, referrals, educational events, counselling, support groups, and exercise resources. We fund research to advance the understanding and treatment of Parkinson’s, as well as allied health positions across the province.
The position
Reporting to the Manager of Education & Support Services, the Healthcare Navigator acts as a vital bridge between individuals with Parkinson’s disease (and their carepartners) and the complex healthcare system. This role provides personalized guidance, advocacy, and education to help people navigate medical care, access community resources, benefits, and manage daily challenges. The Navigator assists in identifying barriers to care—such as transportation, lack of awareness of Parkinson’s disease or logistical hurdles—and collaborates with service providers to improve outcomes.
This is a full-time, largely remote position based in Vancouver, BC with meeting attendance at our downtown office up to 1-2 times/week. There is also occasional evening or weekend work, or travel within the province.
Responsibilities of the Healthcare Navigator
- One-on-One Support: Serve as the primary contact for individuals newly diagnosed or living with Parkinson’s, providing emotional support and customized care guidance.
- Care Coordination: Assist clients to identify their needs and navigate the pathway/s to movement disorder specialists and allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists and mental health professionals.
- Resource Navigation: Connect clients with community resources, including support groups, exercise programs, transportation assistance, and home care services. Assist with applications for financial support and other benefits.
- Education and long-term care planning: Educate clients and families on Parkinson's symptoms, medication management, hospital safety protocols, and proactive planning (such as advance directives and residential care).
- Advocacy & Problem Solving: Assist clients in navigating hurdles and overcoming barriers to care and collaborate with service providers to improve outcomes.
- Outreach & Engagement: Represent PSBC at community events and build relationships with healthcare providers and community services.
- Documentation: Maintain accurate, confidential records of client interactions and other data as required.
Other duties:
- Researches information and community resources pertinent to people living with Parkinson’s, caregivers/carepartners, and healthcare professionals.
- Keeps up to date with healthcare system changes, policies, and navigation pathways relevant to Parkinson’s, using this knowledge to support individuals and families in effectively accessing services and advocating within the healthcare system.
- Keeps up to date with research and related PD news. Uses knowledge to recommend items for article topics for publication, materials, and PSBC’s library.
- Suggests/contributes content for quarterly newsletters and weekly digest emails.
- Works with team members on assigned special projects.
- Provides occasional coverage for Education & Support Service team members.
- Other organizational and administrative tasks as required.
What we’re looking for
Education
- Post-secondary education in health, public health, social services, not-for-profit management or related field, or a combination of education and experience required.
Experience
- Minimum of one year working in service delivery in a not-for-profit environment or related health or social service field; experience in healthcare navigation or coordination preferred.
- Experience supporting people living with a chronic health condition is preferred; knowledge and understanding of Parkinson’s disease is an asset.
- Knowledge of resources available in BC to refer people to assist those living with a chronic health condition.
- Familiarity working with the BC health care system.
- Experience liaising with healthcare providers and community social services.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally.
Skills
- Strong computer skills and the ability to work with a variety of tools and software
- Research skills to locate pertinent information and resources for clients.
- Strong listening skills; compassionate and organized questioning skills to identify needs.
- Strong interpersonal skills: empathy, patience, and the ability to work with a diverse population.
- Excellent written skills to provide effective support through email.
- Presentation and facilitation skills an asset.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
What We Offer
Be part of a small, agile team that is committed to making a meaningful impact on the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
- Compensation of $50,000-$67,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience.
- A primarily remote work environment and access to a modern downtown Vancouver office located near Skytrain, Westcoast Express and Seabus.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, office closure during the December holiday period, and a paid day off on your birthday.
- Extended health and dental benefits, and RRSP matching program, available after the successful completion of the probationary period (typically three months).
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- A supportive and collaborative team culture.
How to apply
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications, experience and connection (if any) to Parkinson’s disease or chronic illness through Charity Village. Applications will be reviewed as they’re received so don’t wait to apply!
Thank you for your interest. We kindly ask that applicants do not contact us. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
