Johann Kuschke
The Drumheller Mail
Cancer patients at the Drumheller Community Cancer Facility now have added support throughout their treatment, follow-up care and more, thanks to specially trained nurses who are being situated in all 15 community cancer facilities across the province.
These specially trained nurses will act as cancer patient navigators to ensure patients and their families get access to needed services and supports, regardless of where they live or where they are on their cancer journey.
The program, funded by the Alberta Cancer Foundation, has already delivered tangible benefits in communities where navigator roles have been established.
The support that patient, Eileen Emann, received from Drumheller’s patient navigator, Bev Krabsen, proved to be helpful during her recent chemotherapy.
“She was there to explain what I was going through, and what I could expect to happen going forward. And she was there for both myself and my daughter, who’s my main caregiver.” said Emann
“I was treated royally, had speedy treatments and all the help I could possibly want.”
Cancer patient navigators are currently positioned in Fort McMurray, Peace River, Grande Prairie, Barrhead, Bonnyville, Hinton, Drayton Valley, Camrose, Red Deer, Drumheller, Canmore, High River, Medicine Hat and Lethbridge while recruitment for a navigator in Lloydminster is underway.
“Alberta Cancer Foundation donors want to support patients and families throughout their cancer journey,” said Myka Osinchuk, chief executive officer of the foundation.
“We are pleased to be a part of a program that eases that journey by providing extra support to Albertans during a difficult time.”
These cancer patient navigators are already seeing and guiding upwards of 50 per cent of new consults received by community cancer centres.
“A cancer diagnosis can be a confusing and stressful event that gives rise to significant financial and practical problems, especially for Albertans who live outside of Edmonton and Calgary,” said Linda Watson, Interdisciplinary Practice Leader in Community Oncology with the Alberta Healthcare Services (AHS) Cancer Care department.
“Once diagnosed, patients must negotiate their way through a complex maze of tests, appointments, treatments and services.”
Watson explained that the navigators are here to help cancer patients through the process, and to be there for them as they receive treatment.
“Because we know cancer care is much more than just treatments and surgeries,” said Watson.
The cancer patient navigation model is mirrored after the successful navigator programs of AHS’ breast health teams, which have been in place for the past seven years.
“Navigators are there to answer questions, address concerns and provide support and resources at a time when breast cancer patients can feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the medical system and the reality of their diagnosis,” said Shannon Gil, an Edmonton-based Comprehensive Breast Program navigator.
“It is important that patients and their families know they are not alone,” said Kristen Snow, a new patient navigator in Drayton Valley.
“We need them to know how a cancer patient navigator can help them, and how to contact one. That way, the patients can put all their focus and efforts into getting better.”