What is the role of the patient navigator in helping a patient problem solve and set goals?

The role of the patient navigator is fundamentally centered around empowering the patient, and helping them develop the skills and confidence to set their own goals and solve problems is a key part of this process. This approach places the patient at the center of their care and promotes autonomy, which is essential in navigating the complexities of healthcare, especially in oncology. By focusing on skill-building and confidence, patient navigators support individuals in taking ownership of their healthcare journey and making informed decisions.

This empowerment allows patients to understand their options, articulate their needs, and identify barriers to achieving their desired outcomes. It also fosters a collaborative relationship between the navigator and the patient, enhancing the patient's ability to communicate effectively with their healthcare providers. Consequently, developing these skills can lead to better health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction as they feel more capable and supported in managing their own care.

The other options, while potentially helpful in certain contexts, do not align as closely with the navigator's primary role of fostering patient autonomy and self-efficacy. Collecting input from healthcare team members can provide insights, but it should not overshadow the patient's own voice and goals. Sharing stories of other patients can be inspiring, yet it's important that the focus remains on the individual patient’s unique situation. Providing a list