Why is it important for a navigator to ask patients about non-medical issues during assessments?

Asking patients about non-medical issues during assessments is essential because it allows the navigator to understand how the patients' social environment and personal circumstances may influence their health status and treatment adherence. Factors such as family support, financial constraints, housing situation, and access to transportation can significantly affect a patient’s ability to follow medical guidelines, attend appointments, or adhere to treatment regimens.

By gaining insight into these non-medical aspects, navigators can tailor their support and resources to address barriers that might hinder a patient’s care. For example, if a patient has difficulty accessing transportation, the navigator can assist in arranging rides or connecting them with local transportation services. Understanding the broader context of a patient’s life enhances the navigator's ability to provide holistic and effective support tailored to the individual’s needs.

This approach recognizes that healthcare does not operate in isolation and that a patient's overall well-being is influenced by multiple external factors. Thus, it empowers both the navigator and the patient in the care process, ensuring that not only medical issues but also social determinants of health are addressed.