Patient navigation: a "win-win" for all involved.

21 The words “you have cancer” are some of the most devastating words a patient will ever hear. Initially, patients are “often immobilized by fear and uncertainty” (Gentry & Sein, 2007, p. 8). Even as patients and their families are facing one of the greatest challenges of their lives, they will be asked to navigate a complex healthcare system while coordinating the multiple treatment plans they will face. At this time, they need someone to serve as their guide on this frightening journey. Patient navigator programs are streamlining the oncology care continuum, ensuring timely treatment and follow-up, and preventing patients from “falling through the cracks” (Gentry & Sein). Patient navigation in cancer care refers to individualized assistance offered to patients, families, and caregivers to help overcome health system barriers and facilitate timely access to qualified medical and psychosocial care (Fowler, Steakley, Garcia, Kwok, & Bennett, 2006). Navigation programs for patients with cancer focus on working with patients and their families at various points along the continuum, with some beginning at diagnosis and continuing through all phases of the cancer experience (C-Change, Inc., n.d.; Yates, 2004). Patients and families value the individualized support provided by patient navigators throughout their cancer journeys. Patient navigators can connect patients to resources and support systems, help streamline appointments, help patients access financial services, assist with transportation needs, reduce patients’ and families’ anxiety, identify appropriate social services, and track interventions and outcomes (see Figure 1). Navigators can save valuable time and reduce problem-solving time for patients, ensuring that they are offered appropriate services in a timely manner. Although the initial model of navigation was designed for low-income patients, the model has evolved to assist people from all socioeconomic backPatient Navigation: A “Win-Win” for All Involved