The power imbalance between patients and providers cannot be overstated. As a navigator, you should assess patient understanding by assessing patients’ capacity to self-advocate, and help them optimize time with their doctors and treatment team (eg. prioritize questions, clarify information with treatment team).
Sadly, the answer to that question in the headline is likely “never.” Drug expenses are continuing to climb as newer and more sophisticated treatment options are being released for standard of care, co-payments and deductibles will continue to go up instead of down, and people cannot afford in most cases to take off from work for their cancer treatments.
One way to improve upon your professional skills is to perform learning activities that address one's gaps in knowledge, skills, attitudes, and abilities so you can help identify these patients.
As a support provider to patients as they move through the healthcare system, a patient avigator must be educated and trained to effectively address the continually evolving needs of their patients.
In 2017, AONN+ recognized the effort and work of the local navigation networks (LNNs) by offering them opportunities to provide the ONN-CG, OPN-CG, or beta thoracic certification exams in their area.
