Navigation & Survivorship News

Mental Health and Cancer

Navigators caring for cancer patients know that cancer doesn’t just affect patients’ bodies, but also their minds. Navigators can only help ensure patients receive the support they need if they know their patients are struggling. In this month’s Insights into Navigation, Lillie provides some tips on how to determine the mental health status, potential needs, and supports for both patients and their caregivers.

The History of the “+” in the AONN+ Logo

In 2013, nurses made up the majority of AONN membership, but many patient navigators without clinical licensure were also joining. This realization, paired with several timely initiatives, spurred AONN to change its name to the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators, Inc.® (AONN+) later that year.

Helping Your Patients Proactively Plan for Their Cancer Screenings

We all know that screening tests can detect some cancers early (when treatment works best), but do our patients know that? We can help educate our patients on the importance of early cancer detection and where they should inquire for screenings related to women’s health, head and neck cancer, skin cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer.

Local Navigation Networks (LNNs): Welcoming Newly Formed Networks and Reporting Best Practices from Existing Ones

LNNs have been consistently growing since their inception in 2013. In 2023, there are 35 national, international, and virtual LNN groups. Sharon’s latest Members’ Memo welcomes the 6 newly formed LNNs (5 new, 1 consolidation) and shares tips, tricks, and best practices for maximizing engagement as reported from existing LNN leaders.

Fertility After a Cancer Diagnosis: The New Ethical Challenges for Caring for Stage IV Breast Cancer Patients on CDK 4/6 Inhibitors

Women are living far longer than ever before thanks to the evolution of CDK 4/6 inhibitors. While most of the patients in this prognostically favorable group are postmenopausal, certainly not all are. Some patients might be considering having a baby, and with that possibility, several things need to be considered. Read on for a list of considerations that’ll help you support your patients as best you can.

Winter Winds Down, Conversations Around Hospital Budgets Ramp Up: How to Demonstrate Your Value During Budgetary Conversations

Are you confident that you and your oncology navigation peers will be factored into next year’s fiscal budget? Learn how to play an active role in solidifying your budget for the coming fiscal year by preparing both verbal and written resources packed with quality metrics that demonstrate your value.

Promoting Professionalism Through Local Navigation Networks

No matter what stage of your career you’re in, you should always be on the lookout for professional development opportunities. Said opportunities won’t just fall into your lap—you have to pursue them. Think of exploring professional development opportunities like peeling an onion. When approaching professional development in this way, you are able to take the necessary time to slowly peel each layer back at a comfortable pace. The more layers you peel, the more involved you’ll be. Read on for a step-by-step approach.

Should Your Female Breast Cancer Patient Have a Lumpectomy or Mastectomy? Helping Patients Confidently Decide Between Surgical Options

After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, patients often find treatment options dauntingly confusing. Just like a bra, there is no “one size fits all.” We’ve compiled a list of considerations to share with patients debating options to help them confidently make informed decisions.

Congratulations to the AONN+ Outstanding LNN Award Winner, Middle Tennessee

Lindsey Coleman and Kathleen Serfass accepted Middle Tennessee’s award honoring the active role their local navigation network plays in advancing the role of patient, nurse, and/or social work navigation. In this article, we’re breaking down the tactics Middle Tennessee uses to facilitate communication and education among their navigation community so others can duplicate their efforts.

For All of You Overwhelmed, Overworked Navigators During the Holiday

One of my favorite holiday cards says, “It’s almost time to switch from my everyday anxiety to my fancy Holiday anxiety.” All jokes aside, ever feel like it is all just too much? Pandemics. Violence. Cancer. Polarization. Climate change. Colder weather. Inflation mixed with holiday shopping. In her latest article, Mandi offers 3 reasons you might feel burned out or have compassion fatigue (and what to do about it).