To foster a supportive environment, patient navigators should encourage what?

Encouraging community and support group involvement is vital for fostering a supportive environment for patients undergoing treatment. When patient navigators promote engagement with support groups or community resources, they help patients connect with others who share similar experiences. This connection can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of belonging, which is crucial during a potentially overwhelming and challenging time such as cancer treatment.

Support groups offer emotional support, shared insights, and practical advice, enhancing patients' ability to cope with their conditions. It also encourages open discussions about their feelings and experiences, which can be therapeutic. Building a network of support not only empowers patients but also helps them access valuable resources and information that can improve their overall experience with treatment.

In contrast, promoting competition among patients or encouraging isolation could lead to negative emotional impacts, and maintaining silence about emotions would prevent healthier expressions and coping strategies from being utilized. Therefore, the emphasis on community and support group involvement is foundational for patient navigators aiming to create a nurturing and understanding environment.