In this position, you will engage in collaborative work within the community, with the Mobile Community-Based Rapid Access Addictions Medicine program. This team will be focused on connecting with vulnerable populations accessing Good Shepherd and other community programs focused on serving those experiencing homelessness and precarious housing.

The Nurse Practitioner will be working with their NP colleague providing on-the-spot care to clients, collaborating with their circles of care, and improving overall health outcomes of marginalized individuals. This program allows for independent work, flexibility in care provision, and an independent environment for the NPs.

The work of Good Shepherd is based on a fundamental belief in promoting hope and dignity to the most under-served members of our community. You will be working with our patients/clients, visitors, and staff by providing comprehensive primary healthcare services, including health promotion, disease prevention, treatment of injury and illness, consultation, and support.

Good Shepherd is committed to integrating Harm Reduction into our all of our services and to prioritizing the rights, dignity, and choices of those who use substances. By integrating a Harm Reduction framework within our programs, we can decrease barriers to service and better support some of our community's most marginalized members.

How You Will Make an Impact

• To work within the full scope of the RN (EC) practice to provide primary care to all individuals served by IHT and HoW and other appropriate social services in accordance with the College of Nurses of Ontario's Expectations for Consultations with Physicians by Registered Nurses in the Extended Class.
• Provide assessment, brief intervention, and motivational interviewing for clients presenting with substance use disorders, especially opiate specific concerns.
• Participate in intensive outreach and case finding for OAT delivery, particularly for women and other populations who face barriers accessing supports for substance use disorders
• Establish and enhance partnerships with local agencies serving women and other populations facing multiple barriers
• Provide same-day follow-up to referrals, prescription, and dispensing of OAT and other addictions medicine
• Encourage, schedule, and decrease barriers for follow-up appointments
• Provide harm reduction supplies and education Assess the need for orders and interpret appropriate diagnostic, screening and lab tests and reports
• Formulate diagnoses and communicate and interpret these to clients and any supports (e.g. other service providers, family)
• Treat illnesses, within the scope of practice, through the provision of pharmacological and complimentary therapies;
• Provide education, information and support to individuals that supports health and wellness (e.g. explain need for medication compliance and the negative consequences associated with substance use; identify and support the adoption of health lifestyle patterns);
• Provide information to individuals about basic health and wellness issues (e.g. immunization, nutrition, healthy parenting, hygiene, health maintenance);
• Utilize a holistic approach and a client centered approach to care, paying special attention to psychological, social, cultural and environmental factors;
• Triage, communicate and collaborate with hospitals and other community health services (e.g. CCAC, hospitals, specialists, and other family physicians);
• Assist in linking clients with community primary care physicians as necessary.
• Observe all health and safety rules and work in compliance with the provisions of the occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations

What You'll Bring to Our Team

• Respectful and compassionate demeanor
• Bachelor Degree in Nursing and Registration in the Extended Class with the College of Nurses of Ontario
• Two years' experience as a Nurse Practitioner, RN, (EC) preferably in a community setting
• Experience working with mental health, addiction, and concurrent disorders
• Experience and sensitivity in working with culturally diverse populations including individuals newly arrived in Canada
• CPR/First Aid certification and WHMIS training and/or willingness to certify
• Experience working with mental health, addiction, and concurrent disorders
• Experience and sensitivity in working with culturally diverse populations including individuals newly arrived in Canada
• Committed to intersectional anti-racist/anti-oppressive practice, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
• Outgoing and adaptable to working in a fast paced and changing environment.
• Creativity and flexibility in achieving desired outcomes.
• Hospitable in dealings with clients and other key stakeholders
• Available, respectful and responsive to the needs of others
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good interpersonal and organizational skills
• Ability to with various record keeping technologies including Electronic Medical Record programs

What We Offer

• Be a part of a caring TEAM THAT SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
• Support for continuing EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Staff recognition programs along with access to self-care supports and EMPLOYEE /FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)
• POSITIVE and ENCOURAGING atmosphere
• Make a difference and provide HOPE
• Extended benefits

Good Shepherd, a ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, is an equal opportunity employer operating within an anti-racist and anti-oppression framework. We strive to establish workplaces that reflect and are enhanced by the rich diversity of the community we serve.

Good Shepherd welcomes and encourages applications from all people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you need accommodations, please contact Human Resources at 905.528.5877.

Good Shepherd has a mandatory verification of COVID-19 vaccination policy. More information on the full policy requirements and accommodation allowances will be provided to those selected for an interview

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