Patient Navigators Offer Support, Resources

  • By Lisa Amstutz
  • August 29, 2012
  • 361
                        
(Teaser story) “Cancer.” “Diabetes.” “Parkinson’s.” Hearing a doctor pronounce words like these can be frightening and overwhelming. Along with their emotional impact, they create a whole new set of issues to deal with: finances, treatment options, appointment schedules, even lodging and transportation. These are issues that no one should have to face alone. “Studies published in oncology journals show that outcomes are better when patients have somebody to help them through the process, providing both medical and emotional support,” said Susan Van Sickle, Wound/Ostomy/Oncology Specialist and Patient Navigator at Wooster Community Hospital (WCH). "Sometimes that’s just giving them a shoulder to cry on.” The hospital now offers that caring shoulder in the form of two Patient Navigators who can assist patients with everything from insurance questions to lodging arrangements to wound care instruction. One reason Patient Navigators are important, Van Sickle said, is that when a person is in shock at hearing a diagnosis, they are not always listening well or thinking clearly. The Patient Navigator can help them understand their disease and the next steps to take. Many people immediately go home and look up their diagnosis online. “There are a lot of good resources out there—and a lot of misinformation,” Van Sickle said. “It’s important to have someone who can point you to factual resources.” Working with a Patient Navigator can help set many fears and uncertainties to rest as you navigate the cancer or chronic disease journey. For more information or to contact a patient navigator at WCH, call 330-202-5162 or visit www.woosterhospital.org.


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