April 27, 2010.
The Cancer Center at Lake Manassas welcomes Jackie Glenn to the staff as a full-time patient navigator. Glenn says that her role as patient navigator is to help patients find the information and resources they need to get the best care possible.
“Whether directing a newly diagnosed patient to an appropriate support group, providing resources for financial assistance, or answering insurance questions, I’m here to assist patients and their families in breaking down barriers that could otherwise delay treatment,” she says.
Patient navigation in cancer care refers to the assistance offered to a patient or family member to help them access resources and information, work through the often complex healthcare system, and overcome any barriers to quality care. A patient navigator is a problem-solver who understands the healthcare system and can help patients in many ways. Examples of services that a patient navigator may offer include:
- Providing literature on coping with cancer
- Providing information about what to expect during treatment
- Sharing suggestions for dealing with side effects of treatment
- Locating support groups, classes and other programs for information and support
- Identifying resources for financial assistance
- Assisting with insurance questions and paperwork
- Arranging transportation
Glenn has a bachelor’s degree and more than 20 years experience in administration, public relations, and community outreach. Prior to joining The Cancer Center at Lake Manassas, she worked in perioperative services administration at Prince William Hospital.
