Care Navigation an Effective Guide Through Patient Journey

Expert guidance through the health care system is just another way AdventHealth is making it easy for patients to receive high-quality care. Care navigation and nurse navigators at AdventHealth have made a tremendous impact on positive patient experience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Statistics show that there has been a decline in emergency admissions, patient expenses, and even removed disparities in health care since introducing care navigators at AdventHealth hospitals.

We spoke to Laura Kozenieski, RN, an orthopedic nurse navigator at AdventHealth North Pinellas, about her role in contributing to positive patient outcomes.

What is the role of a nurse navigator?

In my role, I provide personalized one-on-one care to each of our orthopedic patients to be sure they're receiving the best care possible. This includes answering questions, explaining information, connecting our patients to helpful resources, and more. I am a constant link between our patients and care team.

The role is truly diverse. I am able to use the skill of communication, education, and collaboration with the entire interdisciplinary team. From the doctors and nurses to physical therapy, case management, we are able to form special bonds with patients and their families.

What has your experience been like as an ortho nurse navigator?

As a nurse navigator, I am able to bridge the gap between social minorities and the health care system. We're able to get easy access to health care services and coordinate care in a more efficient manner. We're also able to build trust with patients that adds a layer of transparency to their care.

Orthopedic surgeon Alan Graves, MD, says that nurse navigation is an integral role and one that differentiates AdventHealth for patients.

"As far as patients are concerned, the nurse navigator serves an educational role by providing preop classes and teaching so that patients can better prepare for their procedure and recovery," said Dr. Graves. "They can ease the patient's anxiety and help troubleshoot small issues before they become big problems."

He says that nurse navigators are crucial intermediaries and connect surgeons, nurses, case managers, administrators to ensure coordinated care. Additionally, he emphasized that nurse navigation provides direction to patients while receiving home care, so while patients aren't in the hospital they don't feel alone.

For more information on AdventHealth North Pinellas' care navigation program, click here.