Studies show that newly diagnosed cancer patients rate their quality of care higher and report fewer problems if they receive support from a patient navigator. This is why Mary Bird Perkins offers navigation services at no cost for patients diagnosed with cancer.
Our patient navigator helps to make sure patients and their families have all the information they need to make the most informed and timely decisions about their treatment plan. In addition to easing concerns, answering questions, coordinating care and arranging transportation, patient navigators also schedule consultations with patient support services and specialists as needed. Patient navigation services are made possible by the generosity of the community.
The navigation team is made up of registered nurses, social workers and dieticians who focus 100 percent of their time working with cancer patients. These services are made possible by the generosity of the community.
Services We Offer
When a navigator first meets with a patient, they will assess and identify any medical or psychosocial needs they may have. Appropriate information on community resources, support groups and educational programs are then provided to ensure patients receive the best care possible.
Navigation team members can help educate patients, family members and caregivers on cancer diagnosis, treatment, side effects and clinical trials. When a patient is receiving information from various specialists, navigators can help reinforce instructions and information. The Cancer Center’s dieticians, who are part of the navigation department, can also help address nutritional needs, assist with symptom management and improve the nutritional status of patients before, during and after treatment.
Patient navigators also help remove any barriers throughout the cancer journey. Some common barriers our navigators address include coordinating transportation to and from cancer treatments and identifying financial assistance resources for treatments.
Navigators can also help coordinate support services, tests and procedures and physician appointments. This ensures each patient has a dedicated support person who can connect them with resources within the Cancer Center and community. Navigators are able to enhance communication between various service providers between doctor visits.
Cancer can be a challenge for patients, families and their caregivers. The fear and anxiety of the unknown can be difficult. A navigator offers a kind, empathetic ear and can help guide a patient through important conversations to figure out how they can be best supported.
For more information on how you can receive the help you need, contact one of our patient navigators or social workers today.
Patient Navigators by Location:
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Baton Rouge: (225) 215-1126
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington: (985) 276-6832
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma: (985) 850-6309
Social Workers by Location:
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington: (975) 875-5325
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Gonzales: (225) 644-1205
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Hammond: (985) 542-5000