Retired Physicians as Patient Navigators in Oncology: Guiding Patients Through the Complex Health Care System

J Clin Pathways. 2023;9(5):71-72.

The healthcare landscape can be overwhelming for patients, especially those facing a cancer diagnosis. Navigating through a myriad of treatment options, coordinating appoint­ments with multiple specialists, and understanding complex medical information can be daunting. To ease this burden, re­tired physicians are stepping in as patient navigators, utilizing their wealth of knowledge and experience to guide individuals through the intricate health care system. In this article, we ex­plore the invaluable role retired physicians play as patient navi­gators, with a focus on oncology care.

Patient navigators are individuals who help patients navigate the health care system, providing guidance and support through­out their medical journey. These navigators act as advocates, assisting patients in understanding their diagnosis, treatment options, and available health care resources. While patient navi­gators can come from various backgrounds, retired physicians bring a unique perspective and expertise to the role.

Expertise of Retired Physicians

Retired physicians possess a wealth of knowledge and experi­ence gained through years of medical practice. Their deep un­derstanding of disease processes, treatment modalities, and the health care system makes them well-suited to serve as patient navigators. In the field of oncology, retired oncologists, hema­tologists, and other specialists can offer invaluable insights and guidance to patients with cancer.

Assisting Patients in Understanding Their Diagnosis

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, filled with medical terminologies and complex information. Retired physicians serving as patient navigators can break down these concepts, explaining them in layman’s terms to ensure patients have a clear understanding of their diagnosis. They can help patients comprehend the type and stage of cancer, explain treatment options, and address any concerns or misconceptions.

Guiding Patients Through Treatment Options

Oncology care often involves a range of treatment options, in­cluding surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Each option has its own benefits, risks, and poten­tial side effects. Retired physicians can help patients navigate through this complex array of choices by providing evidence-based information about the various treatments. They can explain the potential outcomes, discuss the pros and cons, and help patients make informed decisions that align with their preferences and values.

Coordinating Care and Appointments

Cancer treatment often involves multiple specialists, each spe­cializing in different aspects of care. Coordinating appointments and ensuring effective communication between these specialists can be challenging for patients. Retired physicians serving as patient navigators can step in to assist with care coordination. They can help schedule appointments, facilitate the exchange of medical records, and ensure that all health care providers are on the same page regarding the patient’s treatment plan.

Supporting Emotional Well-Being

Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can take a toll on patients’ emotional well-being. Retired physicians, with their under­standing of the psychological impact of illness, can provide empathetic support and lend a listening ear. They can offer reassurance, address emotional concerns, and connect patients with additional resources such as counseling services or sup­port groups.

Assisting With Insurance and Financial Considerations

Insurance coverage and financial considerations are often sig­nificant concerns for patients with cancer. Retired physicians, familiar with the intricacies of insurance systems and medical billing, can help patients navigate these challenges. They can provide guidance on insurance claims, explain coverage op­tions, and help patients explore financial assistance programs or resources available to alleviate the financial burden of treatment.

Enhancing Patient-Provider Communication

Effective communication between patients and health care pro­viders is essential for optimal care. Retired physicians, with their understanding of medical terminology and experience in patient-doctor interactions, can facilitate clear and meaningful communication. They can empower patients to ask relevant questions, seek clarifications, and actively participate in shared decision-making with their health care team.

Here are some examples of this program in action:

Cancer Care Connect

Cancer Care Connect is a nonprofit organization that pairs retired oncologists with patients with cancer to provide support and guidance throughout their treatment. Retired physicians serve as patient navigators, helping individuals understand their diagnosis, explore treatment options, and navigate the health care system. They offer emotional support, facilitate communi­cation with health care providers, and assist with coordinating appointments and accessing supportive care services.

Stanford Cancer Center

The Stanford Cancer Center in California has implemented a program where retired physicians volunteer as patient naviga­tors for patients with cancer. These retired physicians work closely with the oncology team to provide personalized sup­port and education to patients. They offer one-on-one con­sultations, help patients understand their treatment plans, and address any concerns or questions. The program has received positive feedback from patients, who appreciate the expertise and compassion of the retired physicians.

Cancer Support Community

The Cancer Support Community, a national nonprofit organiza­tion, offers a program called “Cancer Emergency Fund,” where retired oncologists and health care professionals serve as patient navigators. These navigators assist patients with cancer who are facing financial challenges due to their diagnosis. They provide guidance on accessing financial assistance programs, help patients understand insurance coverage, and offer support in navigating the health care system to optimize their resources and reduce financial stress.

Mercy Cancer Center

Mercy Cancer Center in Ohio has established a volunteer program where retired physicians and nurses serve as patient navigators for oncology patients. These navigators accompany patients throughout their cancer journey, providing support, education, and advocacy. They assist patients in understanding their treatment options, coordinating care between different providers, and accessing supportive services such as counseling and integrative therapies. The program aims to enhance the pa­tient experience and improve outcomes through the expertise and compassion of retired health care professionals.

These are just a few examples of programs where retired physicians are actively involved as patient navigators in oncol­ogy care. Their contributions have been instrumental in sup­porting patients, improving communication, and enhancing the overall quality of cancer care. The involvement of retired physicians as patient navigators not only benefits patients but also provides a meaningful way for these retired professionals to continue making a difference in health care.

Retired physicians have a vital role to play as patient navigators, particularly in oncology care. Their extensive medical knowl­edge, experience, and empathy make them well-equipped to guide patients through the complex health care system. By serving as advocates, educators, and coordinators, retired phy­sicians can help alleviate the burden on patients with cancer, improve their understanding of the diagnosis and treatment options, and enhance their overall health care experience. In­corporating retired physicians as patient navigators can greatly benefit patients, empowering them to make informed decisions and navigate their cancer journey with confidence.

This article was inspired by Fred Steinbaum, DO, who has dedicated his career to cancer care and patient education. After graduating from the A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1968, Dr Steinbaum completed his oncology training at Memorial Slo­an Kettering Cancer Center. He went on to practice medical oncology, believing his DO background gave him an advantage in holistically ca­ring for patients. Now retired, Dr Steinbaum remains passionate about teaching and promoting the osteopathic philosophy. Through establishing a scholarship at A.T. Still University, he aims to continue the osteopa­thic tradition by supporting the enrollment of future DO students.

Even in his early 80s, Dr Steinbaum stays active by barefoot wa­terskiing daily. A few years ago, he impressively completed a 21 minute and 30 second barefoot waterskiing endurance run with two other skiers at nearly 40 mph. Dr Steinbaum’s dedication to health and vitality at any age, in addition to his commitment to patient-centered care and education, serves as the motivation behind this piece exploring the vital role retired physicians can play as patient navigators.