If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you're likely feeling overwhelmed or scared. Cancer is very difficult for people and their loved ones to deal with.

Enter the oncology nurse navigator (ONN). You can rely on this compassionate health care team member to see you through treatments and hospital visits. The ONN will guide you on your path through cancer care. Even during this challenging time, ONNs act as a source of support and expertise.

An ONN is a registered nurse who specializes in guiding people with cancer through their care. Their role includes:

• Helping people with cancer understand their diagnosis and treatment choices
• Providing emotional support and answering questions
• Coordinating appointments and medical tests
• Making sure people with cancer receive needed care and resources
• Serving as a link between people with cancer, loved ones, and doctors

Having an ONN is like having a friend guide you through the steps of cancer care. ONNs create a personalized experience for people with cancer and their families. They want to make sure you feel supported every step of the way. They provide:

• Empathy and compassion. ONNs are known to be kind and compassionate. They offer a listening ear and a helping hand.
• Expertise and knowledge. These nurses are trained in oncology. This means they know all about cancer and its treatments. They use this knowledge to guide people with cancer and help them make informed decisions.
• Advocacy and coordination. ONNs are patient advocates. Their goal is to make you feel seen and heard. They also coordinate care. ONNs make sure people with cancer can navigate the complex health care system.

Getting what you need to successfully treat cancer isn't always easy. But ONNs are there to help overcome many barriers to care. These barriers can include:

• Financial issues. ONNs assist people with cancer in finding financial resources and support programs to help cover the cost of cancer treatments.
• Transportation difficulties. If needed, ONNs can help arrange transportation to and from medical appointments.
• Language and cultural barriers. ONNs work with people from diverse backgrounds. They can connect people with cancer with language services or culturally appropriate resources.

Even after treatment, ONNs continue to help. They provide support by:

• Offering tips on how to manage side effects and symptoms
• Providing resources for ongoing care and support
• Connecting people with survivorship programs and support groups

Ask your doctor if ONN services are available to you. Some health systems offer this service, but not all do. Certain health systems may have other similar support people, such as social workers or patient advocates.

An ONN can make a tough time in your life a little less scary. Lean on them to help you through the process of cancer treatment. They're an important member of your team who is there to support you.