The doctor is in when it comes to finding resources for some of life’s challenging issues.
This week the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice Society has launched an online directory that provides links and resources to obtain low and no cost community services.
Called the Pathways Community Service directory, the website provides contact information, details and guides to help people negotiate the complex matrix of social services and health care.
The website allows users to browse by categories — such as First Nations services, disability services or senior services — or search by symptoms or concerns showing a full list of available services.
Users can also filter their search by their preferred language or method of access i.e. in person, by phone, online, etc.
“We are excited to offer a new public service to our community that is supported by the local family doctors,” says Dr. Paras Mehta, co-chair for the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice Society. “Having a public directory where patients can access resources and supports will allow them quick and easy access to these services they may not know about.”
The website also provides links to documents, videos and websites related to a particular search. All resources are reviewed by a clinical committee before they are added to the Pathways site to ensure they are a reliable source of information.
The service was first launched for Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows in May and now Tri-Cities and New Westminster residents have one for local services.
Funding for the project comes from the General Practice Services Committee to the Division of Family Practice, and Fraser Northwest division staff will be keeping the information up to date as regular updates are provided by partners such as the Fraser Health Authority and Share Family and Community Services.
