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Margaret I Fitch
University of Toronto, CanadaTitle: Peer Navigation: Providing support, way-finding and information
Abstract
Introduction
Living through a diagnosis and treatment
for breast cancer is a daunting experience. Individuals suffering from breast
cancer often report issues with physical, emotional, and practical challenges.
The challenges vary from person to person, may appear at any time throughout
the experience, and can exist even after the treatment is finished, Survivors have reported that information,
support, and effective communication are critically important in helping them
cope with the range of challenges they experience. Peer navigators can provide
relevant assistance for patients and survivors.
Methods
Peer navigation programs have been
implemented for breast cancer patients to offer assistance in finding
appropriate resources to help with the challenges patients and survivors are
experiencing. Various models have been designed to fit the local settings and
availability of resources. Some are operated from health care facilities and
cancer clinics while others are based in the community. Evaluation of various approaches through
questionnaires and interviews provide clarity about the roles to be enacted by
the peer navigators.
Results
The essential role of the navigator is to
provide peer support and to assist the patient/survivor connect to resources
which are relevant to the identified needs. Overcoming barriers to accessing
these resources is a key function. Peer Navigators who have been trained for
their roles and are clear about their functions are more satisfied with their
ability to help patients and survivors. Peer Navigators linked with health
facilities or cancer programs are able to provide timely and appropriate
connections to resources for patients and survivors. The patients and survivors
find the peer navigators helpful by understanding the situation and providing
relevant information.
Conclusions
Building programs of peer navigation is an
effective approach for assisting patients and survivors to overcome barriers
they are facing in accessing relevant resources. Descriptions of effective
programs are now available to help guide future clinicians and program
administrators.
Biography
Dr Margaret Fitch is a Professor (Adjunct) at the Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Canada. She is also Professor in the the Oncology Nursing Track of the School of Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Rwanda. She is Editor-in-Chief of the Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal and a member of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology. SHe is also a Past President of the international Society of Nurses in Cancer Care.
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