Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center has added patient navigation services to its Breast Specialist Program on the Northshore. Breast cancer patients in the area are now able to take full advantage of a breast specialist navigation team, with navigators offering personalized care and wrap-around services
At Mary Bird Perkins, navigators work to ensure that breast cancer patients are comfortable and knowledgeable about their treatment plans and next steps. They are also available to provide support with needs inside and outside of the Cancer Center, helping address a variety of challenges so patients can focus on their recovery. While patient navigation has long been available at the Cancer Center’s Covington location, 1203 S.Tyler Street, this is the first time breast cancer patients have had navigation across the continuum of care.
Studies show that navigators can greatly improve patient outcomes. According to a 2024 review by the National Institutes of Health, 81% of studies reported a positive impact of patient navigators on quality care indicators. Key services navigators provide include:
· Assessing and identifying needs
· Educating about cancer diagnosis, treatment, side effects and clinical trials
· Removing barriers to effective cancer care and providing access to support services, appointments, tests and procedures
· Providing emotional support throughout a patient’s cancer journey
The Breast Specialist Program offers a comprehensive approach to treatment that includes different specialties, each with a specialized navigator to assist patients.
“When it comes to patient navigation, the value is undeniable and the data supports that,” said Maeghan Jacob, director, cancer navigation and support services, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “Navigation decreases patient wait times, increases compliance and impacts overall outcomes for patients. We are blessed with an incredible group of navigators who are passionate about the health and well-being of our patients. Their work really speaks directly to our mission – to improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer in our community.”