Introduction

摘要

This issue of Seminars in Oncology Nursing's focus on navigation came about as a response to the need for existing, new, and future navigators to have an overview of the state of knowledge regarding navigation. The articles in this issue review the essential components and critical issues related to the navigation process and program development. Dr. Harold Freeman, known as the creator of the navigation movement, provides a commentary on the history, principles, and future of navigation. A review of the American Cancer Society navigation model of lay and social work navigators in underserved areas is provided by Esparza. McMullen articulates the role and challenges of the oncology nurse navigator working within a multidisciplinary team caring for patients with various types of cancers. The evolution of an exemplary model for breast cancer patients is provided by Shockney, Haylock, and Gantril. Krebs and Burhansstipanov describe the role of patient navigation in decreasing health care disparities for American Indian populations.