Peer Navigation 101: What is it, and how does it work?

Embarking on a healthcare journey can often feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially for neurodivergent adults. When we add in chronic pain or illness to the mix, it can sometimes feel impossible (and lonely!). Hopper Health recognizes the importance of both allyship and companionship along this journey and introduces a unique approach: Peer Navigation.

Peer Navigation at Hopper Health is more than a service; it's a lifeline of understanding and support. We pair you with a professional advocate, with lived experience as a neurodivergent person, and who also believes that your experiences are valid and important. Your Peer Navigator serves your healthcare journey as so much more than just a guide; they're a teammate who offer insights, advice, and a listening ear. The reason we place so much emphasis on our Peer Navigation is because of the power of shared experiences. 

Neurodivergent individuals often face unique challenges that might not be readily understood by those who haven't walked the same path, and Peer Navigators bridge this gap, providing invaluable wisdom that can only come from personal experience. They truly are experts in navigating the healthcare landscape and provide advice and support to help make it make sense. 

Our Peer Navigators are trained to listen to and value your lived experiences first and foremost. We’ve all heard dismissive phrases like “but you don’t look in pain” or “you don’t seem autistic” but rest assured, our Peer Navigators will never say that. They know, from both professional and personal experiences, how self care for anyone needs to start with centering the individual over clinical “norms.” They will listen to you and believe you, always. 

The process is simple yet profound. Here is what it looks like practically:

Step 1: Join Hopper Health!

At Hopper Health, we believe that healthcare should be personalized, accommodating, and centered around your unique needs. Joining Hopper Health means experiencing a different side of healthcare, one that values your experiences and embraces your neurodivergent identity. Our virtual primary care platform is specifically designed for neurodivergent adults, ensuring that your sensory needs and individuality are at the heart of your care.

Step 2:  Connect with a Peer Navigator

Once you’ve joined Hopper Health, you'll be connected with a dedicated Peer Navigator who will be your reliable guide throughout your healthcare journey. Your Peer Navigator will help you understand and navigate the healthcare services available to you based on your needs, health insurance, finances, and priorities, ensuring you're informed about your options at every step of the way. Whether you have questions about sensory accommodations, appointment scheduling, making sense of a medical bill or finding the right specialist, your Peer Navigator is here to assist you. They'll help you advocate for your unique needs and preferences, ensuring that you're empowered to make information driven decisions about your care.

Step 3: Experience Comfortable Healthcare with Hopper's Approach

When it's time to see a provider, you'll appreciate the immediate difference in how Hopper Health's approach makes the experience more comfortable and tailored to you. Our telehealth platform allows you to access care from the comfort of your own space, eliminating the stress of unfamiliar clinical environments. You can use your sensory tools, wear clothing that makes you comfortable, and control your environment to minimize sensory distractions.

During your telehealth appointments, your provider will be fully informed about your sensory needs and preferences, thanks to your discussions with your Peer Navigator. This means your provider will be prepared to create a supportive and accommodating environment, making your healthcare experience a positive one. With Hopper Health, you won't have to mask your neurodivergent needs or worry about misunderstanding—we're here to ensure you receive care that aligns with who you are.

Step 4: Apply Self-Advocacy Skills to Your Everyday Life

Working as a team with your Peer Navigator, you'll be empowered to navigate not only healthcare but also your everyday life with confidence. The accommodations you've learned about and accessed at Hopper Health translate to a world of possibilities beyond healthcare:

• - Workplace Accommodations: Request sensory-friendly workspaces, noise-canceling headphones, or flexible break times to optimize your productivity and comfort at work.

• - Educational Settings: Advocate for sensory accommodations in classrooms, such as preferred seating or breaks, ensuring your learning environment supports your needs.

• - Social Interactions: Communicate your sensory preferences with friends and family, fostering understanding and enjoyable interactions without sensory overload.

• - Public Spaces: Request accommodations like quiet waiting areas or sensory-friendly events to make outings and social gatherings more inclusive and enjoyable.

• - Travel: Advocate for sensory accommodations when booking flights or accommodations, making your travel experiences more comfortable and stress-free.

Peer Navigation at Hopper Health is about more than just practical healthcare advice; it's about fostering a sense of community and helping you take back power over your own life. We want all neurodivergent adults to be able to embark on a healthcare journey that respects their individuality, empowers them with support, and prioritizes their well-being. You can experience the difference of a healthcare platform that values you as a person, not just a patient. You’re not alone in this journey anymore - your Hopper peer navigator can’t wait to meet you!