Veteran Oncology Nurse Navigates Patients Through Cancer Care and Educates Future Caregivers

Vista Health System: Veteran Oncology Nurse Navigates Patients Through Cancer Care and Educates Future Caregivers.

With 37 years of dedicated service in oncology, Michele Newby, RN, BSN, OCN, has been a guiding light for cancer patients and a passionate educator for aspiring healthcare professionals.

As an Oncology Nurse Navigator at Vista Medical Center East, she provides crucial support to newly diagnosed cancer patients—primarily those battling breast and lung cancer—by removing barriers to care, educating them on their diagnosis, and offering unwavering support throughout their treatment journey. A Lifelong Commitment to Oncology Care Newby’s extensive career spans multiple facets of oncology, including inpatient care, infusion therapy, clinical settings, physician collaboration, hospice care, and patient navigation. This wealth of experience allows her to provide holistic, compassionate, and informed care to those facing one of the most challenging health crises of their lives.

Educating the Next Generation of Caregivers

Beyond patient care, Newby is committed to educating Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) students and healthcare professionals about oncology. She leads three key educational sessions that provide fundamental knowledge on cancer care:

• What is cancer? – Understanding the basics of cancer biology and diagnosis.
• How do we treat cancer? – Exploring treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy.
• How do we care for cancer patients and support end-of-life care? – Focusing on patient-centered bedside care and the emotional aspects of oncology nursing.

These sessions are tailored to CNA students, emphasizing bedside care practices that enhance patient support and comfort.

Collaboration with the College of Lake County (CLC)- Tech Campus

Recognizing the importance of proper education in oncology, Vista Health System collaborates with the College of Lake County (CLC)–Tech Campus to ensure that future caregivers are well-prepared to support cancer patients with knowledge, skill, and compassion. With dedicated healthcare professionals like Newby, Vista Health System aims to bridge the gap between medical knowledge and hands-on patient care, empowering students with the tools they need to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

A Legacy of Compassion and Knowledge

Newby’s role as an Oncology Nurse Navigator and educator is a testament to her lifelong dedication to patient advocacy, education, and compassionate care. Whether guiding patients through their cancer journey or mentoring the next generation of healthcare providers, she continues to make a profound impact in the field of oncology.

For those interested in learning more about Newby’s oncology education sessions or the support services available at Vista Medical Center East, she welcomes collaboration and engagement in the ongoing mission to improve cancer care and education.