One out of every eight women who live to the age of 90 will be treated for breast cancer during her life. More than 180,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with the disease this year. Patients newly diagnosed with breast cancer typically feel anxious and overwhelmed. To help with this difficult time Roper St. Francis Cancer Center offers the Breast Health Navigator Program.

An advanced practice nurse with an in-depth understanding of the disease process is assigned as a navigator for each breast cancer patient, serving as an invaluable resource/advocate. The navigator can direct the patient to information, regarding diagnosis, treatment and recovery, thereby allowing the patient to focus their efforts and energy elsewhere and to make informed decisions.

Because a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and anxiety producing, our staff is committed to making this experience as painless and worry-free as possible. Our Breast Care Navigator helps guide breast cancer patients through the complex maze of new information, treatment options and therapy regimens. The nurse navigator serves as a helpful resource and familiar face to comfort and assist throughout treatment and recovery, allowing the patient to focus her energy and efforts on health and recovery.

SERVICES OFFERED:

• Available to patients with breast cancer (new diagnosis, recurrence, coping problems, end-of-life issues, family support needs)
• Serves as a consistent and knowledgeable clinical resource throughout the treatment continuum
• Acts as a link between care providers and treatment settings (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, inpatient, outpatient, physician’s office)
• Identifies ongoing learning needs of patients and families and ensures that these needs are met
• Connects patients and families to resources for the management of disease- or treatment-related problems
• Coordinates the availability of free screening and/or diagnostic breast imaging procedures to eligible low-income women who are uninsured or underinsured
• Provides educational programs on breast health to professional and community groups
  

For additional information or questions please contact Breast Health Navigator/Clinical Nurse Specialist at 843-724-2747.