Children with Complex Needs Navigation Program

The PEI Children with Complex Needs Navigation Program helps children with complex needs and their families find services for their child’s medical and non-medical needs. The navigator cannot provide medical care. However, they may be able to help with medical and non-medical needs through support, education, advocacy, and referrals to programs and services. 

Does my child qualify for the program? 

Due to limited program resources, navigation services will initially help only Children with Complex Medical Needs or those affected by certain Social Determinants of Health. 

To receive navigation services, children must meet:

• all the criteria in section A for Children with Complex Needs; and
• either the criteria in section B for Complex Medical Needs OR section C for select Social Determinants of Health. 

A. Children with Complex Needs:

1. are under the age of 18; and
2. experience a physical, developmental, behavioural and/or emotional condition that impacts their day-to-day abilities (limiting or preventing them from doing things most children their age can do); and
3. have a health condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months; and
4. have at least two of the following:
   1. an ongoing need for prescribed medication and/or supplements;
   2. frequent or ongoing use or need for medical care, mental health services, and/or extra educational supports;
   3. frequent or ongoing use or need for medical therapies, such as physical therapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, etc.

AND

B. Children with Complex Medical Needs:

1. require service by a PEI pediatrician; and
2. require service from an out-of-province specialist; and
3. require at least two service providers (occupational therapist, speech-language pathologist, dietitian, psychologist, etc.).

OR

C. Children who experience challenges related to certain social determinants of health:

1. who have recently arrived in Canada; or
2. who are involved with Child Protection Services.

For those who meet the criteria, the Children with Complex Needs Navigator can:

• help you understand your child’s medical diagnosis and needs;
• find answers to your questions about screening or testing;
• find answers to your questions about your child’s care plan or next steps;
• help you navigate the health care system;
• listen to your concerns;
• connect you with appropriate programs and services such as social programs; community groups, counselling, or spiritual care;
• help you feel prepared for and supported during out-of-province travel for medical appointments;
• help coordinate your care between provinces if you are moving to/from PEI;
• connect you to resources that may help with financial needs and expenses for medications, travel, or medical supplies.

How can I contact the Children with Complex Needs Navigator?

To speak with the Children with Complex Needs Navigator, you must first complete the Complex Needs Navigator Referral Form (link is below). This service is only available to families with children who fit the above criteria. Once the referral is completed, it will go to the Children with Complex Needs Navigator. You should receive a response within 10 business days.