Patient Navigator Programs Empower Individuals to Understand their Health

Receiving a diagnosis for a medical condition can be nerve-wracking for any patient. Many patients don’t know what questions to ask their doctor, and others don’t know how to best evaluate their options. Patients may forget what the doctor is discussing or be in such a heightened emotional state that the conversation is a complete blur. This, in turn, can make it difficult for patients to make sound decisions about their care.

Take, for example, Mary Bianchi, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Mary researched her options for treatment online, but she was overwhelmed. She then got a second opinion elsewhere, and like most health care centers, they gave her informational videos and booklets about treatment options. However, what this center did differently was something else — Mary received a personal coach.

Healthcare coaches are a recent addition to the healthcare world, as part of something called patient navigator programs. The coaches help patients through the logistical, emotional, and sometimes cultural barriers that can inhibit their ability to successfully navigate the healthcare system.

To read more about healthcare coaches, please visit Jon Belsher's blog here.