Published in:
01-09-2014
Lay Navigator Model for Impacting Cancer Health Disparities
Authors:
Cathy D. Meade, Kristen J. Wells, Mariana Arevalo, Ercilia R. Calcano, Marlene Rivera, Yolanda Sarmiento, Harold P. Freeman, Richard G. Roetzheim
Published in:
Journal of Cancer Education
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Issue 3/2014
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Abstract
This paper recounts experiences, challenges, and lessons learned when implementing a lay patient navigator program to improve cancer care among medically underserved patients who presented in a primary care clinic with a breast or colorectal cancer abnormality. The program employed five lay navigators to navigate 588 patients. Central programmatic elements were the following: (1) use of bilingual lay navigators with familiarity of communities they served; (2) provision of training, education, and supportive activities; (3) multidisciplinary clinical oversight that factored in caseload intensity; and (4) well-developed partnerships with community clinics and social service entities. Deconstruction of healthcare system information was fundamental to navigation processes. We conclude that a lay model of navigation is well suited to assist patients through complex healthcare systems; however, a stepped care model that includes both lay and professional navigation may be optimal to help patients across the entire continuum.