Receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer takes patients on a journey that is unfamiliar and unexpected. Suddenly, they are facing medical tests, doctor visits and a torrent of new information that can cause fear, anxiety and uncertainty about the future.Since its inception in 2005, the breast cancer patient navigator program at the Martin Health Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center has been utilized by hundreds of women and men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and have more questions than answers. As the breast cancer navigator, I offer guidance and support to these patients. I answer questions, provide information and resources, and do everything I can to obtain access to services for them as quickly as possible.
Many of those I serve have little or no health insurance. Our primary goal is to provide patients with equal access to timely treatment, regardless of their ability to pay. This requires a certain level of expertise, ingenuity and tenacity. Martin Health System is the recipient of a grant through Susan G. Komen for the Cure South Florida which helps us in providing this assistance.
In my initial meeting with a patient, I believe the most important thing I can do is listen. I find out what they need and how I can help. My intent is to support them so they can place all of their attention and focus on getting well.
As a patient navigator, I wear a variety of hats. As an advocate, educator and supporter, I am there throughout a patient’s medical care, from the time of initial testing through diagnosis and treatment. I help with financial or insurance related issues, transportation to appointments and referrals to community resources. As an advocate, I might talk with the patient’s physician so I’m able to clarify medical information for him or her. As an educator, I can provide facts about cancer treatment—what to expect and side effects that may be experienced.
I am typically working with patients during some of the lowest moments in their lives, yet I find this work consistently fulfilling and uplifting. I see the strength and resilience of the human spirit in my work nearly every day. One example is a patient who walked in the door with Stage 3 cancer, very limited resources and no health insurance. Six months later, she left our care cancer-free, with a smile on her face and a renewed vigor to live life to its utmost. I witness fear as it turns into trust and shock as it gives way to hope.
No one should feel they have to go through this kind of experience alone—and at Martin Health we do everything we can to ensure they don’t. I believe this is the most satisfying work I could be doing. I like to think of it as taking our patients’ hands and embracing them as they travel on this unexpected and difficult journey. My greatest reward is being able to eliminate their fear and anxiety and lift any burdens from their shoulders. My greatest joy is celebrating with those who have completed treatment and have become a cancer survivor.
