What type of support do patient navigators offer during healthcare processes?

Patient navigators play a crucial role in enhancing the healthcare experience for patients, particularly in managing complex medical care. They provide education about treatment options, which is vital for patients to make informed decisions regarding their health. This includes explaining different treatment modalities, potential side effects, and the implications of choosing one option over another. Such education empowers patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions and fosters better communication with their healthcare providers.

While emotional support, logistical assistance, and financial planning are also important components of patient navigation, the primary focus of the navigator is to ensure that patients understand their options. This understanding is foundational to the navigator's role, as it sets the stage for patients to engage fully with their treatment plans and encourage adherence to their chosen course of action. Providing education not only aids in decision-making but also builds a patient's confidence in the healthcare process.