In Episode 21 of The HQ podcast, we explore the structural barriers that impede the ability of international educated health professionals (IEHPs) to navigate arrival into Canada and find employment in healthcare organizations and explore some of the strategies to improving this. To discuss this topic, we are joined by two members of the National Newcomer Navigation Network (N4) - Christine Kouri, Manager of Health Equity and Diversity at CHEO, and Dr. Sahar Zohni, Project Manager for N4.

Throughout our conversation, we learn about the important work N4 is doing to help make improvements to the arrival process and how it is assisting internationally educated physicians, nurses, and other professionals that our health system desperately needs to ensure uninterrupted, quality services navigate the structural barriers that make arrival, licensure, and employment in the Canadian health system incredibly difficult. 

Don't miss this important conversation! 

About N4

N4, is a national network for the diversity of providers who assist newcomers in navigating these complex Canadian healthcare and social service systems. N4 provides opportunities for professional development, education, virtual discussions, networking, and the sharing of data and resources. It aims to promote best practices in the field of newcomer navigation, with the ultimate goal of improving the experience of newcomers to Canada.

About Christine Kouri

N4, is a national network for the diversity of providers who assist newcomers in navigating these complex Canadian healthcare and social service systems. N4 provides opportunities for professional development, education, virtual discussions, networking, and the sharing of data and resources. It aims to promote best practices in the field of newcomer navigation, with the ultimate goal of improving the experience of newcomers to Canada.

About Dr. Sahar Zohni

Christine has over 30 years of experience in the Canadian healthcare system and is known for her initiatives and expertise in equitable healthcare across socioculturally diverse and marginalized populations. Upon obtaining her Master's in Health Administration, she was recruited to CHEO to lead the development of their Patient Experience department. As the Manager for that department, she led CHEO's efforts to ensure an optimal experience for Syrian Refugees that were welcomed to Ottawa in early 2016. In addition to oversight of the N4 project, Christine continues to lead CHEO's health equity efforts for their most vulnerable patients and families, including newcomers.

Helpful Links

N4 | Website: Click Here

N4 | LinkedIn: Click Here

N4 | Twitter: Click Here

Christine Kouri | LinkedIn: Click Here

Dr. Sahar Zohni | Twitter: Click Here

Tell Us What You Think

We welcome your feedback about the HQ Podcast so we can continuously improve and create episodes that our listeners want to hear. Please take a few moments to fill out our short survey: Click Here

Don't forget to subscribe to The HQ on your favourite podcast player and leave us a review!