NCONN
National Coalition of Oncology Nurse Navigators

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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.

Patients

What is a Navigator and how they help:
 
The Oncology Nurse Navigator is a professional nurse who has experience working with people with cancer and understands how challenging the journey can be. The navigator helps remove roadblocks to treatment, so that patients are able to keep their appointments, follow their treatment regimen, and receive the support services they need. The goal of the nurse navigator is to make sure that the comprehensive and varied cancer care services offered through health care providers and the community is accessible to all patients. Navigators are the community 411 of cancer care and can answer many questions regarding cancer screening, treatment, follow-up and resources available in your community even if you, a family member, loved one or friend have not been touched by a cancer diagnosis.


Educate and advocate for, and navigate the person with cancer throughout their entire cancer treatment and beyond.
 
Improve the patient outcomes by working to eliminate barriers to care.
 
The 411 of cancer resources and community support services.
 
The cancer patient’s personal care coach.


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.