Nurse navigators improve cancer care experience, research shows

Integrating a dedicated oncology nurse navigator into new patient operations enhanced efficiency, scheduling accuracy and patient satisfaction for patients with colorectal or anal cancer, according to research presented at the Oncology Nursing Society Congress 2026 in San Antonio. The six-month initiative entailed a dedicated oncology nurse navigator reviewing and triaging new patients within the gastrointestinal oncology program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. The nurse navigator completed 226 interventions, including genomics consultation, adding disciplines to care teams, escalating cases to providers, facilitating patient phone calls and coordinating pre-visit imaging scans. Nearly 90% of patients said they felt prepared for their consult visit and satisfied with the timeliness of their appointment. In addition, 67% of providers reported patients were scheduled more appropriately. (Cure Today article, 5/18/26)