Navigating the Complexities of Cancer Care

The cancer navigation program at Allegheny Health Network (AHN) supports all cancer patients from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.

Allegheny Health Network (AHN) stands out in the field of cancer care with its comprehensive navigation program — designed to provide every patient diagnosed with cancer within the network with personalized guidance and support throughout their entire journey.

“We’re the only network that has a program this robust,” says Karen Kern, RN, manager of navigation services at AHN. “Our goal is that every patient diagnosed with cancer within our network gets guidance from a navigator.”

Navigators play a crucial role in streamlining the often complex and overwhelming cancer care process, helping patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. AHN navigators are specialized in individual disease sites, including breast, lung, liver, and pancreatic cancers. This allows for tailored support and expertise specific to each patient’s unique situation.

AHN’s navigation program recognizes that cancer care extends beyond medical treatment and traditional nursing support. Financial counselors help patients understand their insurance benefits, coordinate payment plans, and explore financial assistance options. Social Workers provide emotional support, connect patients with behavioral health services, and offer practical assistance with household and living expenses. Patient navigators can even help with transportation assistance to appointments.

“Our navigators take patients throughout their whole entire journey,” Kern says. “With the program, we’ve seen improvement in patient satisfaction and compliance with appointments and treatments.”

The program’s reach extends beyond established cancer diagnoses as well. Navigators can guide patients with potential cancer concerns, ensuring they receive appropriate testing and referrals.

AHN’s cancer navigation program is a testament to the network’s commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. By offering a multidisciplinary team of experts, specialized support, and a focus on the whole patient, the program empowers individuals facing cancer to navigate their journey with confidence and achieve the best possible outcomes.

To refer a patient to AHN’s cancer navigation program, call (412) 578-HOPE.