Exploring the Satisfaction of Patients with Breast Cancer Regarding a Nurse-Led Navigation Program

Abstract

Navigation programs for breast cancer care have evolved to improve access to healthcare, particularly for underinsured or uninsured patients. Nurse navigators play a critical role in providing holistic care that spans from diagnosis to end-of-life, focusing on the physical, social, and emotional well-being of patients. Effective patient navigation requires identifying and addressing barriers that could hinder clinical outcomes. This study explores patient satisfaction with a nurse-led navigation program to evaluate the appropriateness of the service provided. The role of the Nurse navigator includes the clinical outcome, but failure by the navigator to identify these barriers during care will result in poor clinical outcomes. An exploratory qualitative research design was used. It involved conducting interviews with 25 breast cancer patients who attended a private hospital's breast care centre in Gauteng. Participants were asked to comment on their satisfaction with the navigation services provided. Data from the interviews were analysed using conventional content analysis, and categories were identified to inform program improvements. This study highlights the importance of addressing informational barriers in addition to clinical factors to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes in breast cancer care.