Getting to the Heart of the Conversation, what Patient Navigators Do

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Feb 14, 2020 | Amy Kuth, Patient Educator | @amykuth

Article contributed by Mayo Clinic Patient Navigators Angela Young and Jeri Lensing

The Mayo Clinic Cancer Center has Patient Navigators on staff to assist cancer patients. As patient navigators, it is our role to provide nonclinical support to cancer patients, including cancer information, resources to help meet day-to-day needs, and emotional support. We assess for the immediate needs, address those concerns, and lay the groundwork for future or ongoing support. Patient Navigators are active members of your healthcare team and work to address patient and caregiver needs.

Conversations to have with a Patient Navigator might include:

• Community resources available closer to home
• Transportation options: ground and/or air
• Lodging options
• Caregiver support
• Cancer related educational resources
• Financial assistance options
• Navigating resources available within Mayo Clinic
• Palliative care programs
• Survivorship
• Hospice information

Learn more: Navigator Notes