When you have been diagnosed
with breast cancer, moving through the care process can be complex and
confusing. The Riverview Cancer Center has added a new support resource to help
patients - a patient navigator for those who are diagnosed with breast cancer.

“The role of the Navigator
is to guide patients and their family members through the entire breast cancer treatment process,”
explains Riverview patient navigator Lynn Alexander. “The diagnosis of
breast cancer can be frightening and overwhelming and I am able to ease these
feelings by assessing the medical, emotional and social needs of the patient.”
I also coordinate appointments, explain the treatment options the physician has
recommended, and serve as the liaison between the patient and physicians.
Examples of resources may include referrals to support groups, financial
assistance, transportation arrangements and coordination with the Women’s
Boutique for fittings for post-surgical needs.

Having someone to walk
patients through every step of their treatment and recovery is vital. Vital
enough that physicians were involved in the process of creating the patient
navigator position. “Dr. Sam Heiser has been a champion for the nurse navigator
program,” said Kelly Wells, Director of Imaging Services. “When women are
diagnosed they move through the system and need someone to coordinate their
continuum of care.”

For
more information about the Cancer Center, Women’s Center and the patient
navigator, call (317) 776-7133.