Why is building rapport with patients essential for navigators?

Building rapport with patients is essential for navigators primarily because it fosters trust and improves communication. When a patient navigator establishes a positive relationship with patients, it creates a foundation of trust. This trust encourages patients to share vital information about their health, concerns, and preferences openly. Effective communication is crucial in healthcare settings; it ensures that patients understand their treatment plans, potential challenges, and available resources.

With strong rapport, patients are more likely to engage with their care process, adhere to recommendations, and express their needs, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes. This dynamic is crucial for navigators, who often act as intermediaries between patients and healthcare providers, facilitating access to necessary resources and support while advocating for the patient's needs.

The other options do not align with the core purpose of building rapport in patient care. Delaying the navigation process would hinder rather than help patient outcomes. Saying that rapport has no impact undermines the importance of communication in healthcare, and minimizing the navigator's role negates their critical function in supporting and guiding patients through their healthcare journeys.