Patient Navigation in the Age of Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy (IO) has emerged as the fourth pillar of cancer treatment, standing alongside the traditional methods of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.¹ IO is complex with dynamic interplay between the immune system and cancer. There is individual variability since immunotherapy drugs work better in some cancers than others, and even within a single cancer type, patient responses can vary significantly. And the potential side effects can be unique due to an overactive immune system and require judicious management. For patient navigators to help individuals overcome barriers to access this unique support and manage the complexities of treatment, they must maintain a working knowledge of evidence-based information that reflects current standard of care in oncology practice.

With basic knowledge, navigators can help support timely treatment with appointment scheduling, coordinating transportation, and addressing financial concerns related to treatment costs. Financial navigators are key in this field to help patients understand the costs associated with immunotherapy, understand their insurance plan coverage, and explore financial assistance programs that can help offset the cost of immunotherapy. By reducing financial stress and ensuring access to treatment, financial navigators can contribute to improved patient outcomes and quality of life during and after immunotherapy.

While the side effect profile is different compared with chemotherapy, the unpredictable nature of immunotherapy can heighten anxiety levels in patients. Navigators, especially social work navigators, help patients cope with the emotional distress associated with cancer treatment and provide support by connecting them with mental health resources when needed.

To support coping, all navigators educate patients about potential side effects, and often nurse navigators can provide details on how to manage them. They also connect patients with resources for managing side effects and ensure they receive appropriate follow-up care.

With the successful evolution in this treatment arena, navigation does not end with active treatment. Survivorship navigators continue to support patients through the transition to posttreatment care, manage long-term side effects, and access appropriate resources.

This cancer treatment option is a perfect scenario for oncology navigators to function as a bridge connecting patients with the resources and support they need to manage the complexities of immunotherapy and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Reference

1. Hunter P. The fourth pillar: despite some setbacks in the clinic, immunotherapy has made notable progress toward becoming an additional therapeutic option against cancer. EMBO Rep. 2017;18:1889-1892.