During cancer treatment, having a structured support system is crucial for patients, effectively connecting them to necessary care. One of the key roles in this system is that of patient navigators, who, while not oncologists, play a vital role in easing the treatment process.
Visiting a cancer center can be a daunting experience, and logistic as well as emotional support is essential. Cancer survivors can serve as valuable patient navigators, provided they receive proper training. Oncologists, although equipped to deliver evidence-based treatments, often face overwhelming patient loads that make it challenging for them to address the emotional, social, and logistical issues of their patients. Alarmingly, studies suggest that between 5% to 55% of cancer patients may struggle to complete their treatment, often extending over six months—a daunting scenario that underscores the necessity for compassionate care.
The Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) in Mumbai has recognized this gap and has taken significant steps to address it by launching an MSc program in patient navigation, the first of its kind globally. This two-year course, which includes a one-year compulsory internship, has spurred interest in developing a trained workforce of patient navigators across India. This initiative is rooted in the work of American physician Harold Freeman, who pioneered the concept of patient navigation to help underserved populations access cancer care.
Given that the burden of cancer cases in India is projected to rise from 1 million in 2012 to an estimated 1.7 million by 2035, the role of patient navigators will become increasingly crucial, particularly in ensuring that patients receive timely care throughout their journey. Since many patients may fear discussing some of their challenges with their doctors, patient navigators are essential for fostering an environment of support and guidance.
To create a well-versed team of patient navigators, TMH has also implemented a one-year diploma course named Kevat at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), started in 2018. These courses offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training led by field experts, covering everything from cancer screening and survivorship to end-of-life care. The navigators, who maintain professional standards while providing emotional support, help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, ensuring they receive the care they need.
Research has demonstrated the positive impact of patient navigation, with studies indicating improved treatment initiation and adherence, enhanced patient satisfaction, and better quality care. In light of these promising findings, there is a push to expand similar training programs in other regions of India, particularly in Bengal, where such opportunities currently do not exist.
In a noteworthy move, a new initiative in Calcutta, named Jiboner Sathi, is recruiting breast cancer survivors as navigators to assist newly diagnosed patients throughout their treatment, providing them with essential training and support. This locally-driven effort represents a significant step toward enhancing patient navigation resources in Bengal.
Overall, patient navigation has already proven helpful for many families grappling with cancer, fulfilling an essential role in delivering quality care and streamlining the treatment process. With increasing recognition and establishment of training programs, there is hope that more regions in India will see the positive impacts of patient navigators, thereby improving the overall healthcare experience for these patients.