Guiding Patients from Cancer Diagnosis through Survivorship

At Providence St. Joseph Hospital Eureka, cancer care extends far beyond diagnosis and treatment. Through its accredited and nationally recognized comprehensive cancer program, patients receive personalized, coordinated support designed to guide them through every stage of their cancer journey, from diagnosis through survivorship.

A vital partner in that experience is the hospital’s team of Oncology Nurse Navigators (ONNs), who serve as consistent, compassionate guides for patients and their families when they are first diagnosed with cancer.

“Our cancer program is built on providing compassionate, whole-person care,” said Dr. Ellen Mahoney, medical director of the Providence St. Joseph Hospital Eureka Cancer Program. “Oncology Nurse Navigators are essential to that mission. They help patients understand their diagnosis, connect them with the right services and ensure care is delivered seamlessly.”

Personalized Guidance from Day One

A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, often bringing a flood of information, appointments and uncertainty. Oncology Nurse Navigators help ease that burden by acting as a central point of contact and a steady source of support.

From the moment of diagnosis, ONNs serve as a liaison between patients and the care team, ensuring each patient moves through the system with clarity and confidence.

“Our navigators walk alongside patients through one of the most challenging times in their lives,” said Priscilla Lynn, director of Oncology and Infusion Services. “They don’t just coordinate care, they provide reassurance, education and advocacy so patients feel supported when they receive a diagnosis.”

Oncology Nurse Navigator Nathan Mitchell emphasized the importance of clear communication early in the process. “We support patients and families by providing tailored, easy-to-understand education about what to expect,” he said. “We also serve as a central hub for information, helping answer questions and ease fears so patients don’t feel overwhelmed.”

Ensuring a Strong Start with Diagnostic Guidance

Early in the cancer journey, timely and complete diagnostic work is critical. Oncology Nurse Navigators help guide that process by working closely with primary care providers and specialists.

They support a thorough diagnostic workup by helping ensure the appropriate imaging, lab work and testing are completed before an oncology consultation. This coordinated approach allows patients to begin their care journey with the information they need to make informed decisions.

Enhancing Communication Across the Care Team

Cancer care often involves multiple providers, specialties and appointments. ONNs play a key role in keeping communication clear and consistent.

They act as a liaison among primary care providers, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and other members of the multidisciplinary team, helping ensure everyone is aligned and informed.

“We help bridge communication between patients and their care teams,” said Oncology Nurse Navigator Nathan Mitchell. “Our role is to make sure patients understand what’s happening and feel confident moving forward.”

Education, Advocacy and Emotional Support

Oncology Nurse Navigators provide patients and their families with vital information about their diagnosis, treatment options and what to expect throughout their cancer journey.

They help translate complex medical information into clear, understandable guidance and support patients in making informed decisions about their care.

“Every patient’s experience is unique, and we take the time to understand their needs and concerns,” said Oncology Nurse Navigator Aimee Pekkala. “We’re here to answer questions, provide support and make sure patients never feel alone in the process.”

Nathan Mitchell added that advocacy is a core part of the role. “Patients should know they have personalized support that focuses on the whole person and family,” he said. “We create a safe space where no question is too small and no fear is too insignificant. We advocate for patients to ensure their care aligns with their values, needs and goals.”

In addition, ONNs connect patients with essential resources such as financial assistance, counseling, nutrition services and support programs — often before challenges become barriers.

Coordinating Care to Reduce Barriers

Another key role of Oncology Nurse Navigators is coordinating care across the cancer program. They help schedule appointments, arrange diagnostic tests and facilitate collaboration across the multidisciplinary team.

By streamlining logistics, ONNs reduce barriers to care, minimize delays and help patients focus on their health and healing.

“As oncology nurse navigators, we work closely with teams across the hospital, from social work and nutrition to financial counseling and palliative care to remove barriers,” Mitchell said. “We help coordinate everything from imaging and biopsies to transportation and lodging so patients can focus on getting the care they need.”

“Coordinated care makes a meaningful difference in the patient experience,” Dr. Mahoney said. “Our navigators ensure patients receive timely, connected care that supports the best possible outcomes.”

A Commitment to Compassionate, Community-Based Care

At Providence St. Joseph Hospital Eureka, the Oncology Nurse Navigator program reflects a deep commitment to patient-centered care in Humboldt County and beyond. By combining clinical expertise with empathy and personalized attention, ONNs help make a complex journey feel more manageable.

“At the end of the day, we want patients to feel seen, heard and supported,” Pekkala said. “We’re here for them, every step of the way.”

That commitment is echoed by Mitchell: “We’re here to help patients navigate the complexity of the medical system and feel confident and in control of their decisions. No one should have to go through this alone.”