Oncology Patient Navigator



POSITION SUMMARY

The Oncology Patient Navigator will serve as a patient advocate to support and assist patients with cancer in navigating through the healthcare and social service system. Emphasis is on patients who are newly diagnosed with cancer, but services can be provided to anyone, across the continuum of care, including at time of abnormal finding through end of life care. The Patient Navigator assists patients to overcome individual and institutional barriers to care, thus working to ensure their access and improve outcomes. Functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team. Performs the functional roles of care coordinator, educator, patient advocate, consultant, and liaison. Visits with patients may occur in the inpatient, clinic, outpatient, or long term care setting.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education:

Bachelor's degree in social sciences, nursing, or other health related field. MSW or MSN is preferred.

Experience:

Minimum of three years experience in a health services organization. Experience in Oncology Care required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of community and community resources. Demonstrated high level of autonomy. Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills. Articulates well in a variety of communication situations, including written and verbal. Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, healthcare providers and the community. Familiarity with Microsoft computer applications and equipment is required. Knowledge of the community and community resources and demonstrated ability to research resources. Sensitivity to working with diverse populations must be demonstrated. Is organized and can demonstrate creative problem solving skills. Is compassionate and empathetic with a sincere desire to help people. Ability to reach out and work with a variety of different people and departments both inside and outside the health system.

License/Certification/Registration:

Valid Driver's License with driving record that meets standards established by Medical Center's insurance carrier. Must provide own vehicle. Encouraged to seek certification from a nationally recognized oncology patient navigator program.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED SUPERVISION GIVEN



ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Facilitates interaction and communication with the healthcare staff, providers, caregivers, and patients in order to coordinate services within the community and at outside agencies. Directs patients to community, state, and national resources as appropriate. Assists in accessing culturally competent, supportive care, as necessary. Assures expert, integrated, cost-effective, quality patient care through the coordination of clinical care for oncologic patients with complex issues across the continuum of care settings. Participates in activities, which enhance role development and keeps informed of current trends and legislation affecting care of oncology patients; reading professional journals; and sharing knowledge obtained from professional conferences. Continually works to identify potential barriers to care for oncology patients and their families. Assists in the provision of programs that enhance the education and support of patients, families and communities. This may include support groups, cancer screenings, and educational programs. Participates in departmental and hospital committees and meetings to facilitate improvement of patient care and development of goals, philosophies and objectives for oncology population. Provides accurate, timely and appropriate documentation of assessments, interventions and outcomes in the appropriate record system. Serves as a liaison and consultant to patients, families, the community and the multidisciplinary healthcare team. Visits with patients in a variety of settings including, inpatient, clinic, and outpatient areas. Maintains confidentiality of patients, families, and system information.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Performs related and miscellaneous duties as assigned.