Expansion of navigation services aims to improve patient care

The Cancer Center and Research Institute is advancing patient care and outcomes by expanding its navigation services. The program is made possible through a recent award from the American Cancer Society Lions Grant. The initiative is set to improve patient experiences by reducing disparities in care, streamlining access to treatment, and addressing the unique challenges faced by cancer patients across various specialties.

The Cancer Center will utilize this enrichment opportunity for five nurses providing navigational services in key areas: Brandi Garcie, RN—Breast Navigation; Angela Smith, RN--Thoracic/Lung Navigation; Shelby Simpson, RN--Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Navigation; Aubrey Farmer, RN--Surgical Oncology/Breast Navigation; and Wendy Arinder, RN—Hospital BMT/Hematology/Oncology Navigation.

“We are grateful for this award and will use the knowledge gained from this training to develop an expandable and standardized navigational model. This will guarantee that patients receive a consistent, seamless experience under the care of our cancer team,” said Heather Sistrunk, Administrative Director of Clinical Affairs.

Adding further value to the initiative, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently acknowledged the importance of navigational services by including reimbursement for certified “Principal Illness Navigation” in the 2024 CMS Physician Fee Schedule. This policy shift allows the Cancer Center to begin billing insurance payers for navigation services. Additional revenue from the billable services will allow the expansion and enhancement of the Cancer Center’s current navigational program moving forward.

The improved navigation services are expected to begin in February 2025.