What does a Patient Navigator do?
Published 3 min read
A patient navigator is a health care professional who helps patients navigate the health care system. Patient navigators work with patients to identify their health care needs and connect them with resources to help them get the care they need.
Patient Navigator job duties include:
- Act as a liaison between patients and healthcare providers
- Schedule and coordinate appointments for patients
- Help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options
- Connect patients with community resources and support services
- Assist patients with insurance and financial issues
- Advocate for patients’ rights
- Provide emotional support to patients and their families
- Keep patients informed about new treatments and clinical trials
- Help patients navigate the healthcare system
- Serve as a resource for patient education materials
Patient Navigator Job Requirements
Patient Navigators typically have a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Certification is available through the National Association of Healthcare Navigation and the American Academy of Healthcare Navigation, although it is not required. Patient Navigators typically have experience working in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, doctor's office, or health insurance company.
Patient Navigator Skills
- Patient advocate
- Excellent communication skills
- Empathetic
- Active listening skills
- Able to build rapport
- Patience
- Persistence
- Organized
- Resourceful
- Flexible
- Problem solver
Related: Top Patient Navigator Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Patient Navigator
A patient navigator is a professional who helps patients navigate the healthcare system. They work with patients to ensure that they receive the care they need and that their rights are protected. Patient navigators also help patients understand their health insurance coverage and make sure that they are getting the most out of their benefits.
Becoming a patient navigator requires both formal education and on-the-job training. Formal education typically includes a bachelor’s degree in social work, public health, or a related field. Many patient navigators also have a master’s degree in one of these fields. On-the-job training typically lasts for several months and covers topics such as customer service, insurance billing, and medical terminology.
The best way to prepare for a career as a patient navigator is to volunteer or intern in a healthcare setting. This will give you the opportunity to learn about the healthcare system and to develop the skills that you will need as a patient navigator. You can also join professional organizations such as the National Association of Healthcare Navigation and the American Academy of Healthcare Navigation. These organizations offer networking opportunities, educational resources, and job postings.
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