The challenges patients face in navigating care 

Healthcare can often feel overwhelming for patients, particularly after receiving a new diagnosis. Navigating medical appointments, understanding complex medical terminology, managing medication changes and dealing with logistical issues such as transportation and lodging can be daunting for patients and their families. The need for personalized guidance and support is critical to ensure patients do not feel lost in the healthcare system. 

The vital role of patient navigators 

With 13 cancer centers across the state serving more than 150,000 cancer patients each year, Baylor Scott & White has the largest network of hospital-based cancer programs in Texas. Countless patients walk through our halls every day battling a cancer diagnosis, but these individuals are never alone thanks to our patient navigators.

These dedicated professionals empower patients throughout their cancer journey — identifying and reducing barriers, answering questions, providing support, and often creating lifelong connections with patients and families.  

However, there is a critical need for more patient navigators to serve the growing number of patients in need of personalized guidance. 

Caring guidance 

Patient navigators at Baylor Scott & White provide individualized, comprehensive support throughout the entire care continuum. Key aspects of the patient navigator’s role include: 

• Central point of contact: Navigators serve as a primary liaison between patients, their families, and the multidisciplinary care team, facilitating timely communication and ensuring that care plans are understood and executed efficiently. This has been crucial in reducing confusion and anxiety, as patients have a dedicated advocate helping them navigate the complexities of their treatment. 
• Continuity of care: A unique feature of the patient navigator’s approach is their involvement across the entire patient journey. From the outpatient setting, inpatient hospitalization, and into survivorship, navigators remain engaged with each patient, ensuring that no step in their care is overlooked. This continuity of support has proven to enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction. 
• Patient education: Patient navigators introduce patients to their diagnosis and treatment options early in the process, providing clear, accessible education in the patients preferred language and learning style. This allows patients to better understand what to expect and make informed decisions about their care. As a result, patients feel more empowered and less anxious about the journey ahead. 
• Connection to essential resources: In addition to clinical care, patient navigators assist patients with practical, logistical and social needs, such as securing financial aid for medications, transportation, support groups, and other essential resources. This has been especially important for patients who may face financial barriers to receiving necessary treatments. 
• Ongoing support: Navigators remain a consistent resource throughout the entirety of treatment and into survivorship. This long-term support helps patients manage the emotional and practical challenges of recovery, ensuring that they have the tools and resources they need to thrive post-treatment.

Your impact: Empowering patients with the support they need 

This vital service is provided to patients at no cost, and philanthropic support is critical to expanding the reach of patient navigators at Baylor Scott & White. Your generosity can help provide more patients with the essential guidance, resources and support they need to successfully navigate the complexities of a cancer diagnosis. 

See how patient navigators support cancer patients on their journeys

For more information, contact

Krista Sharp

Director, Development

Call

214.820.2585

Email

Krista.Sharp@BSWHealth.org