Nurse Navigators Help Steer the Way

Many things can stand in the way of a person with cancer getting the care they need, which is why it’s good to have someone help navigate the unfamiliar terrain of a cancer diagnosis. That’s where patient navigators step in - to meet with all new cancer treatment patients and follow them through treatment and into survivorship.

Help navigate the system

Since 2012, there has been a team of patient navigators at the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center at Firelands Regional Medical Center. They have specialized training and certifications to navigate the healthcare system for those with a cancer diagnosis. Patient navigators guide patients during and after cancer treatment and work to eliminate barriers so patients can focus on healing.

Navigators ask questions to find out what the person needs and what might keep them from getting the care they need. After their initial meeting, navigators may be able to help patients and families:

• Coordinate medical appointments.
• Communicate with the rest of their cancer care team.
• Discuss the side effects of treatment or concerns.
• Take advantage of support services and community resources for any practical, physical, social, spiritual and mental health challenges.
• Understand the condition and treatment options.
• Apply for financial aid and understand insurance benefits.

The patient navigators assist with weekly chemotherapy education classes and the twice monthly breast cancer support group.

Danielle Buathier, RN, oncology-certified nurse, and patient navigator at the Center for Breast Care, meets patients with positive mammograms requiring a biopsy. She follows them from potential diagnosis through surgery and cancer treatment if needed. “I am here to communicate, support, educate, advocate and eliminate barriers to care from cancer screening to cancer survivorship,” Danielle said. “I am with patients each step of the way.”