Patient Navigator Case Study

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1. Define a patient navigator:
a. The first patient navigator program was conceptualized in the 1990’s by a surgical oncologist at Harlem Hospital, Dr. Harold P. Freeman. The Patient Navigator Outreach and Chronic Disease Prevention Act was signed into law in 2005 (Dolan). The goal of a patient navigator is to work with the patient and other health care professionals to assist the patient with any barriers regarding their care as a whole. This may include but is not limited to: community resources for provider approved referrals, administrative and clinical needs, help with complex care issues and help provide holistic care (Kinn’s p 19).

2. What does it mean to operate as a patient navigator in the facility where you are employed?
a. The
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A medical assistant, (MA) who is skilled in both administrative and clinical skills is able to navigate tasks that include: explaining, inquiring, supporting and coaching the patient. They are able to find and coordinate information, which includes seeking collaboration from other health care providers. The MA documents test results and processes information as needed as well as assisting the physician or provider. Working with patients requires that the MA is able to adapt to a patient’s special needs, whether it is for developmental life stage issues, cultural diversity or communication barriers. With these skills the MA is able to help the patient navigate through the challenges of the medical issues that arise (Kinn’s p 19, 29).

4. How would I help the patient in the critical thinking application, 2-2?
a. Mrs. Glasgow suffered a CVA, she and her son need help coordinating some of her care.
i. I would read her chart to make sure I understood all of the parameters. I would then meet with Mrs. Glasgow and her son to discuss her condition and to see what help is needed.
b. Mrs. Glasgow does not understand when or how to take her medications:
i. Working with her son, develop a plan that would enable her to remember her medications.
1. Set up an alarm that would let her know when the medication is due.
2. Have a list of the medications with directions on how to take them.
c. Mrs. Glasgow is concerned that her insurance will not cover the cost of her