Providence Regional Cancer System Patient Navigator Focuses on Head and Neck Cancers

Navigating cancer treatment options can be overwhelming. Still reeling from the news, patients are often frightened, full of questions and unaware of their options as they enter cancer treatment. That’s where Providence Regional Cancer System Patient Navigators come in. They provide a wealth of information and support to patients and families at all three Providence oncology locations: Lacey, Centralia and Aberdeen.

Since May, Becky Goad, RN, BSN, has served as the head/neck cancer patient navigator. She has quickly built collaborative relationships with community health partners and served more than 100 vulnerable patients.

Goad has been a nurse for 25 years, with 14 in critical care. Most recently, she worked in the Tumwater School District as one of their student nurses.

In addition to Goad’s work with head/neck cancer patients, Providence also has dedicated navigators for thoracic, breast, gastrointestinal and genitourinary cancers.

Goad and fellow patient navigator Karry Trout are also actively working to provide navigation services to 100% of high-risk breast cancer patients in Lewis County.

“It is such an honor to join Providence’s oncology patient navigator team, and to be entrusted to make such a difference in the lives of our patients,” Goad said. “I believe in Providence’s values and Mission, and my past experiences have led me to this place in time and I believe this truly is a perfect fit.”

Providence Regional Cancer System Provides a Resource to Patients

By working directly with oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and other clinicians, navigators such as Goad help patients understand and follow their cancer treatment plans. This type of guidance has been shown to improve treatment outcomes for patients. By having someone else to lean on and lead the way, patients and their caregivers can focus on getting well.

Providence Nurse Navigators understand “the system” and act as patient advocates, helping cancer patients navigate their treatment and advance from one stage of survivorship to the next. This free service is available for patients to call upon helpful, compassionate guides who will assist them in finding their way through cancer treatment. They provide a key link between patients and medical providers.

Some of the services navigators provide include:

• Consultations with patients and family to assess medical and emotional needs
• Coordinate cancer support groups and help in accessing educational and support services
• Continued support after cancer treatment

For more information on Providence Nurse Navigators, contact the Providence Regional Cancer System at 360.754.3934.