What is the primary role of a patient navigator?

The primary role of a patient navigator is to connect patients and caregivers to resources and services. This role is crucial in helping individuals navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, ensuring that they have access to the appropriate care, education, and support they need throughout their healthcare journey.

Patient navigators guide patients through various stages of their care, including helping them understand their diagnosis, arranging appointments, assisting with paperwork, and connecting them with community resources, such as financial aid or transportation services. This support is especially vital for patients facing barriers such as language, cultural differences, or lack of knowledge about the healthcare system.

In contrast, the other roles mentioned in the options are not part of a patient navigator's primary responsibilities. Providing direct medical treatment falls under the domain of healthcare professionals like doctors and nurses. Conducting clinical trials is typically handled by researchers and clinical trial coordinators who focus on developing new treatments. Overseeing hospital administration is the responsibility of hospital administrators who manage the operational aspects of healthcare facilities. Thus, the role of a patient navigator is distinctly focused on enhancing patient experience and facilitating access to care, which is why connecting patients and caregivers to resources and services is the correct answer.