When faced with a cancer diagnosis, the process of seeking care can be overwhelming. Many patients do not know where to begin nor whom to reach out to.
Our oncology nurse navigators are oncology nurses with specific knowledge and training to provide guidance, education, and valuable resources. They guide patients through the cancer experience at UT Southwestern, working in collaboration with caregivers, support services, and all members of the patient’s care team to ensure care is seamless.
Among their many services, UT Southwestern oncology nurse navigators:
- Orient patients to the cancer center and the UTSW system
- Educate patients and reinforce information regarding their treatment plan and resources available
- Assess for obstacles that may impact a patient’s care such as financial, psychosocial, and physical barriers
- Provide referrals to UTSW oncology support services, including dietitians, social workers, pastoral caregivers, and licensed clinical psychologists – all of whom are specially trained to help patients with cancer
- Facilitate communication between patients and their care team
- Help the patient understand treatment choices in the decision-making process
- Serve as ongoing support through the care continuum
When to contact an oncology nurse navigator:
- Newly diagnosed and not sure where to start
- When you have a care issue you need help to resolve
- Looking for additional educational information
- Something has changed in your care or life and you have questions
