Cancer Patient Navigation

Cancer Patient Navigators are registered nurses with in-depth knowledge of cancer and the cancer system. They work with you, your family and your cancer care team throughout your treatment and follow up care. They also work with other members of your care team to help coordinate your care. Being diagnosed with cancer affects you physically and emotionally. You will have many questions. You may be worried about what your cancer care will include. You may wonder how you and your family will cope during your treatment. You may have financial concerns. A Cancer Patient Navigator can support you through all of this.

If you live in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) and are having difficulties coping with cancer related worry and anxiety or are in need of financial assistance, please call 902-240-8129 to speak with a social worker. You can also ask a member of your cancer team to refer you to a Drug Access Navigator.

What should I expect at my first appointment?

The first appointment may be by telephone or occur in a hospital setting. It is a 'getting to know you' session. The navigator talks to the patient about the role of a cancer patient navigator and answers any initial questions or concerns the patient may have.

Will there be any follow-up?

The follow-up appointment is based on the patient’s needs and concerns. Often, this appointment addresses needs identified during the first appointment. The navigator may enroll the patient in programs they may quality for, answer follow-up questions, make them aware of education sessions about their cancer and treatments and help them prepare for appointments with cancer specialists.

Additional Resources

Cape Breton Cancer Centre video
Cancer  Patient Navigator video