Dear Navigators, Social Workers, Administrators, and Clinical Staff,
The beginnings of the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators (AONN+) were based on empiric knowledge that navigating patients through the maze of cancer care improves their clinical outcome as well as their experience. We set out to prove this theory, and here we are, years later, with our 35 evidence-based metrics for navigation programs disseminated, and navigation programs at the ready to implement and report their data using these metrics. We are more poised than ever to demonstrate the effectiveness of navigation programs!
The resulting momentum from our work on the navigation metrics initiative has spawned growth within the academy, specifically, the establishment of several committees. Have you considered getting involved in the movement? You can apply to join any of these committees by going here.
- Abstract Review: objectively review AONN+ member abstracts and provide feedback for revision, with the greater goal of building momentum and evidence around navigation
- Assistance for Quality and Research: provide mentorship support to AONN+ members in areas of quality, process improvement, metrics, and reporting
- Survivorship: provide education and support regarding survivorship programs and sustainable metrics through sharing of best practices
- Clinical Trials: provide education and support to navigators to promote clinical trials to their patients and institutions
- Technology and Innovation: focus on the use of technology to capture data/metrics for evaluation, improve quality in navigation, and provide patient education and navigator resources
- Policy and Advocacy: utilize legislative, regulatory, and policy advocacy to protect and promote the practice of oncology patient navigation to best serve individuals and families impacted by cancer
Please consider this an invitation to join us in our mission to advance the cause of navigation.
Sincerely,
Lillie D. Shockney, RN, BS, MAS, ONN-CG
Editor-in-Chief, JONS; Program Director, AONN+
University Distinguished Service Professor of Breast Cancer; Administrative Director, the Johns Hopkins Breast Center; Director, Cancer Survivorship Programs at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins; Professor, JHU School of Medicine, Depts of Surgery and Oncology; Cofounder, Johns Hopkins Medicine Managing Cancer at Work.
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