Oncology Nurse Navigator Definition:
The ONN serves as a single point of contact for patients and their families throughout their entire cancer care experience — and most importantly, is an advocate and personal care coach on the patient’s behalf.
The primary role of the navigator is to remove barriers and obstacles that patients encounter. Barriers may be real or perceived barriers. The navigator functions as an advocate for the patient and provides education to patients regarding their disease process, treatment, and side effect management and treatment options. Navigators link patients with resources that enable them to complete treatment and maintain or improve their quality of life. Navigators facilitate communication and act as a liaison with the health care team on behalf of the patient.