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

摘要

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).