patient navigation
Supportive intervention providing individualized assistance to help patients overcome barriers to timely cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
Full Definition
Patient navigation is a evidence-based intervention designed to eliminate barriers and coordinate care for patients from initial screening through diagnosis and treatment completion. Navigation programs typically employ trained personnel who work with patients to address practical, psychosocial, and system-level barriers that may delay or prevent appropriate cancer care. Navigators provide education, emotional support, resource identification, and care coordination to ensure patients receive timely, appropriate services. These programs have demonstrated effectiveness in improving screening rates, reducing time to diagnostic resolution, and decreasing disparities in cancer outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from general care coordination; emphasize barrier removal function.
In Context
- "The federally qualified health center received funding to implement patient navigation for breast and cervical cancer screening." — Grant application
- "Patient navigation significantly reduced time from abnormal mammogram to diagnostic resolution." — Research publication