NCONN
National Coalition of Oncology Nurse Navigators

Join our mailing list

Submit


Our Vision

To be the national leader in establishing standards that define the oncology nurse navigator role by advocating for the oncology nurse navigator within the community and professional arenas.

About Us

NCONN was conceived by five nurses who met while attending meetings of the MD/DC/VA Coalition of Breast Care Coordinators a regional group of breast care nurse navigators who originated in 2003 to network and share information.
 
We learned that through the sharing of information and knowledge across institutions we grew as nurses and improved our ability to navigate our patients more efficiently. We felt it was important that we share this collaborative way of practice by expanding our group to reach other navigators; thus NCONN was born.

Mission
To promote excellence in oncology patient care by fostering collaborative relationships and professional development among oncology nurse navigators and all healthcare disciplines locally, regionally, and nationally.

Message from Harold P. Freeman
We are proud of our vision and look forward to the growth of NCONN across the country.
"NCONN is the professional organization that supports the Oncology Nurse Navigator and ensures expertise in the field of oncology nurse navigation. Working together with all aspects of patient navigation, the Oncology Nurse Navigator serves as a continuous point of contact for patients and their families throughout their entire cancer care experience. The Oncology Nurse Navigator is a vital part of the patient navigation team."
 
Harold P. Freeman, MD, FACS
NCONN Board Advisor


Primary role of the Navigator

The primary role of the navigator is to remove barriers and obstacles that patients encounter.  Barriers may be real or perceived barriers. The navigator functions as an advocate for the patient and provides education to patients regarding their disease process, treatment, and side effect management and treatment options.  Navigators link patients with resources that enable them to complete treatment and maintain or improve their quality of life.  Navigators facilitate communication and act as a liaison with the health care team on behalf of the patient.