Nurse Navigator Offers New Level of Care for Breast Cancer Patients

Providence St. Peter Hospital has hired Melodie Petersen, RN, to fill the newly created position of Breast Cancer Patient Navigator often referred to as a Nurse Navigator.  Nurse Navigators are patient educators, system navigators, and community ambassadors; their goal is to facilitate and improve the cancer care experience for each patient — after diagnosis and through treatment.

“The navigation concept is designed to enhance timely treatment and reduce barriers to efficient care,” said Roy Olpin, (Director, Oncology Service Line Providence Regional Cancer System.) “The breast (cancer) patient nurse navigator will provide patients with local resource information, guide them through appointment details and processes, and deliver a comprehensive care plan."

The Nurse Navigator works closely with several facilities including South Sound Radiology, a partner with Providence St. Peter Hospital in delivering breast health care and the Providence Regional Cancer System (PRCS) to accomplish this goal.