Nurse Patient Navigator for Lung Cancer Patients
March 21, 2011
For the 2010 Annual Report for The Cancer Center at Kishwaukee Community HospitalKishwaukee Community Hospital is now implementing a lung cancer patient navigator program, much like the breast program already in place. Lisa Johnson, RN, OCN, lung patient navigator and clinical research nurse, guides patients with lung cancer through the care continuum, from diagnosis to survivorship.
She works closely with the pulmonologist and other physicians to assist with coordinating and arranging consultations and referrals for patients diagnosed with lung cancer.
The navigator also assists patients by identifying their needs and helping them find resources to meet those needs, whether they are financial, clinical, spiritual or social.
Navigators work to remove barriers to care through patient education and referrals to appropriate services. A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming to patients and families. The navigator helps to make the journey a little easier.
