What is a Nurse Navigator?
A Nurse Navigator is a dedicated healthcare professional who serves as a specialized, personal advocate, guiding patients and their loved ones through the complexities of the treatment journey that may often require care in multiple healthcare settings.
The Nurse Navigator can play a crucial role in addressing a wide range of healthcare needs, assisting with a smooth and informed choice. A comprehensive needs assessment for emotional, clinical, financial, psychological and spiritual needs can be undertaken.
Because navigating the healthcare system can be challenging and anxiety -provoking, the Nurse Navigator will answer your concerns and questions with ongoing support as needed. An older adult may be considered vulnerable for a multitude of reasons (i.e. a functional, mental or physical inability to care for themselves.) potentially resulting in fragmented, poor quality of care.
Key Responsibilities of a Nurse Navigator:
- Perform comprehensive needs assessment
- Evaluate emotional, clinical, financial, psychological and spiritual needs to provide holistic approach
- Provide healthcare education and offer detailed resources (i.e. explanations about diagnoses, treatments, minimize risk factors, expectations throughout the process)
- Coordinate care and resources to streamline treatment and ensure all aspects of care are managed most effectively
- Assist with resources related to chronic disease management
- Provide outreach and education regarding health insurance coverage
- Link patients to community agencies and resources
Nurse navigators offer guidance, support, and peace of mind throughout your journey.