The Role and Contribution of Psychology inthe Navigation of Oncology Patients

Abstract

: Introduction: Patient navigation (PN) is a model of care in which a professional helps the patients overcome difficulties during their treatment. Although established in oncology, the profession does not have regulations, and the training varies in each program. Data about navigators’ formation is scarce, but nurses were the most prevalent professionals in a literature review. Since cancer patients can feel more imbued in expressing feelings, understanding, and coping with the disease, a psychologist could also be capable of navigating. Objective: Explore and recognize PN within the field of psychology. Method: A psychology student was selected for the project “Role of PN in improving time to start and finish radiotherapy (RT) in patients treated by the public health system in Belo Horizonte.” Questionnaires to identify obstacles to the treatment were applied, and training granted by the Global Cancer Institute (GCI) guided the navigation. Results: From July 2018 to January 2020, 73 patients that needed RT were closely guided by weekly contacts, receiving help with documentation, appointment schedules, and information about their rights. Common points were difficulties in transportation, dialogue, and family support. As observed by caregivers, anxiety and stress levels were identified in all patients. As the treatment proceeded, there was a decrease in these levels (measured through questionnaires), with high rates of patient satisfaction with the navigator role ( ≥ 9/10 for all the patients). Conclusion: Beyond clinical care, the psychologist may exert other roles in an oncological team. This emphasizes the importance of psycho-oncology in core education and a new field of specialization due to its unique way of aiding patients’ insecurities. In addition to initial training for skill development, an experienced and accessible institution such as GCI is essential to make navigators feel empowered and secure to perform their roles.