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Current Oncology Reports
Published in: Current Oncology Reports 5/2024

Open Access 06-04-2024 | REVIEW

Patient Navigation in Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review

Authors: Matthew Chen, Victoria S. Wu, Derek Falk, Chesley Cheatham, Jennifer Cullen, Richard Hoehn

Published in: Current Oncology Reports | Issue 5/2024

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Patient navigation promotes access to timely treatment of chronic diseases by eliminating barriers to care. Patient navigation programs have been well-established in improving screening rates and diagnostic resolution. This systematic review aimed to characterize the multifaceted role of patient navigators within the realm of cancer treatment.

Recent Findings

A comprehensive electronic literature review of PubMed and Embase databases was conducted to identify relevant studies investigating the role of patient navigators in cancer treatment from August 1, 2009 to March 27, 2023.

Summary

Fifty-nine articles were included in this review. Amongst studies focused on cancer treatment initiation, 70% found a significant improvement in treatment initiation amongst patients who were enrolled in patient navigation programs, 71% of studies focused on treatment adherence demonstrated significant improvements in treatment adherence, 87% of studies investigating patient satisfaction showed significant benefits, and 81% of studies reported a positive impact of patient navigators on quality care indicators. Three palliative care studies found beneficial effects of patient navigation. Thirty-seven studies investigated disadvantaged populations, with 76% of them concluded that patient navigators made a positive impact during treatment. This systematic review provides compelling evidence supporting the value of patient navigation programs in cancer treatment. The findings suggest that patient navigation plays a crucial role in improving access to care and optimizing treatment outcomes, especially for disadvantaged cancer patients. Incorporating patient navigation into standard oncology practice can reduce disparities and improve the overall quality of cancer care.
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Metadata
Title
Patient Navigation in Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review
Authors
Matthew Chen
Victoria S. Wu
Derek Falk
Chesley Cheatham
Jennifer Cullen
Richard Hoehn
Publication date
06-04-2024
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Oncology Reports / Issue 5/2024
Print ISSN: 1523-3790
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6269
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-024-01514-9

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