Oncology navigators contribute to the knowledge and evidence base and integrate evidence and research findings into their practice per the Oncology Navigation Standards of Professional Practice.1 Congratulations to each abstract contributor for the many hours of work everyone on the interprofessional healthcare team contributed to the identification of clinical questions or problems that were evaluated for evidence-based practice or quality assessment. The body of knowledge surrounding the practice of oncology nursing and oncology has been enhanced through participation in the work initiatives.
This display of expertise is a part of the patient navigation job roles by levels of experience.2 The entry level navigators with 1 to 2 years of experience can use this knowledge to obtain basic understanding of navigation processes and disease care. They can begin to identify what comprises quality improvement for the patient. The intermediate navigators with 3 to 4 years of experience can use this information to identify plans of action, alternatives, and solutions to understand and manage health conditions and treatment options. This is an opportunity to network with other navigators, share best practices, and engage in discussions with their supervisors on processes that may benefit patients. The advanced navigators who have 5 or more years of experience may be the contributors to the abstract process as they evaluate and recommend improvements to the navigation processes as well as analyze existing quality improvement initiatives and create innovative programs. They share knowledge about navigation’s contribution and findings with other professions during conferences and take the abstract to a published level.
The abstract is a foundational part of the navigation sustainability model as it supports workflow integration, monitoring and evaluation, outcomes, and effectiveness domains.3 It is a stepping stone as the outcomes are presented to other professionals attending the conference or shared in media for those unable to attend. This dissemination of work can lead to future collaborations on a local, state, or national level as well as invitations to share as a key navigation speaker.
I challenge each one reading the information to apply the new knowledge in navigation programs to improve care for patients! And appreciation goes to each abstract reviewer who made the presentation of this knowledge possible!
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