What is the role of an oncology navigator in end-of-life care?

The role of an oncology navigator in end-of-life care is crucial, as it involves facilitating discussions about goals of care and ensuring that patients' wishes are honored. An oncology navigator is trained to support patients and their families during difficult times, which includes navigating the complexities of end-of-life situations. This role often involves engaging in sensitive conversations about the patient's values, preferences, and in some cases, advance directives, ensuring that care aligns with the patient's desires.

A primary focus of an oncology navigator is to promote patient-centered care, which is particularly important at the end of life when patients may want to prioritize comfort, quality of life, or specific treatments aligned with their individual goals. By assisting with these discussions, navigators help to clarify the patient's understanding of their condition and the potential outcomes of various treatment options, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care.

In contrast, while financial advice, alternative treatment options, and coordination of physical therapy services may be relevant in an oncology setting, they do not specifically align with the core responsibilities of an oncology navigator in end-of-life care. Such navigators primarily focus on enhancing communication, advocating for patients, and ensuring that healthcare providers respect and implement the patients' end-of-life preferences.