What is a Patient Navigator?

Patient navigators are trained individuals that are able to help patients in finding resources and assistance. They work with patients to overcome barriers to care and help navigate the complex medical system. For example, a patient may have trouble scheduling an appointment, or going for lab work, or affording a co-pay. The patient navigator helps identify the reasons why a patient may be having trouble and help craft solutions to the problems that prevent them from getting appropriate care.

Patient navigators are vital in the world of healthcare. They establish partnerships with community organizations so that patients can be connected with resources to help them manage their disease. They build trust within the patient and physician continuum and connect patients with clinical trials. They are connectors and educators. Patient navigators are guides and friends during the journey with lupus. The Lupus Foundation of America, Greater Ohio Chapter’s (LFA, GOC) patient navigators stand ready to assist Ohio’s lupus patients in need of assistance. They are a team of professional and compassionate individuals who are trained specifically to work with lupus patients. Many are nurses or social workers, and some are even patients!

One of the main duties of an LFA, GOC patient navigator is to reach out to patients to make wellness calls. It is important to the Chapter to check in with lupus patients across Ohio to ensure, especially during the isolation of COVID-19, that they are thriving and aren’t encountering barriers to care.

The LFA, GOC is dedicated to service, advocacy, and education of the Chapter’s constituents and the public on what living with lupus is really like. A patient navigator is an ally, a support system and a resource. They do more than assist patients with hardship. They make sure that the Chapter is doing everything possible to help patients live a happy and joyous life despite living with a chronic illness.

Lupus is often a lonely and isolating disease. But you are not alone. We are building a lupus community that we want you to be a part of. There is no “I” in “lupus” but there is “us.”

Patient navigators are available in different regions of the state of Ohio so they are familiar with the areas patients live in. If you would like help contacting a patient navigator, call the office at 1(888) NO-LUPUS (1-888-665-8787) and the Chapter staff will help find the right navigator for you.