Patient Navigators are specially trained healthcare workers who provide services and support for the ill and aging. This concept was originally created to assist with the poor, uninsured, and those with low literacy levels. It is my understanding that it then developed to assist those suffering from cancer. Now Patient Navigators can help anyone.
Patient Navigators help people "navigate" the maze of doctor's visits, diagnostic testing, visits to the hospital, outpatient centers, insurance and payment issues, and other components of healthcare. For example, a patient navigator may coordinate your doctors' visits, maintain telephone contact between you and your physicians, arrange for transportation and assist with insurance paperwork. Patient Navigators are former nurses, social workers, or community health workers.
Admittedly, I only recently learned of this service. However, it makes sense: conceivably millions of people are not adept at all of the issues one faces in today's healthcare world. For example, one may be undaunted at arranging his or her medical appointments, but becomes easily flustered dealing with insurance or Medicare paperwork. Another individual may be in a nursing home and needs transportation. Yet many others do not know what to ask their doctor during a visit and even become embarrassed, feeling that they are taking up too much time of their physician.
If you feel that this type of service can help you, but do not know where to turn, I would simply Google the phrase "Patient Navigator" to learn more. I also became aware of a particular website which may be helpful: http://www.patientnavigator.com/. While I cannot vouch for this website, it may be a good place to start.
Attorney Doug Stoehr is interested in healthcare problems and is concerned about individuals who become injured through no fault of their own. Contact our office if you should have any questions or concerns.
Attorney Doug Stoehr
