Patient navigators

Patient navigator Jodi Ciuk consults with a patient.

A cancer diagnosis can be a confusing time, not just for you, but for your family and loved ones, as well. When people first hear they have cancer, they often feel overwhelmed and don't know what's next. Even after some time has passed, it can be difficult to consider all the new information and demands involved with a cancer diagnosis and treatment plan.

At Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, patient navigators guide you and your caregivers through diagnosis, treatment and beyond. Our navigators meet you where you are in your journey by answering any questions you or your caregiver may have. These might include your specific cancer type and stage, walking you through treatment options, connecting you with essential financial resources you may need, or helping you find transportation and lodging to ensure you can receive the treatment you need.

Patient navigators are active members of your health care team, assessing and addressing immediate needs and laying the groundwork for future or ongoing support.

Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center patient navigators assist all patients and communicate in ways that works best for you, for instance in person, virtually, over the phone or by email. Translation assistance is available as well. We also have an expanding group of navigators who serve specific communities, including:

  • Hispanic/Latino (MN)
  • American Indian/Alaska Native (AZ, MN)
  • African descent (FL)

This service is free to Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center patients and families at any of our Mayo Clinic locations.

Patient navigator Trudie Jackson consults with a patient.

Patient navigation helps individuals access the care they need. Patient navigators in the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center help people with cancer and their caregivers identify and reduce barriers that make it difficult to get quality, timely care. Patient navigators can assist with many needs and work hand in hand with the social work team.

  • Educational resources: People with cancer, both those who are newly diagnosed and those living with chronic disease, often have many questions about:
    • Their specific type of cancer.
    • Potential treatments.
    • Clinical trials.
    • How to cope with cancer.
    • Survivorship.

    Patient navigators can help explore answers to these questions and provide resources. They will ensure you and your caregivers have the knowledge necessary to be active partners in your care.

  • Employment concerns: Employment for people with cancer and caregivers can be impacted by a cancer diagnosis because they may need additional time away from work or special accommodations during treatment. Patient navigators can help explore various benefits and programs, such as Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) benefits, disability options, work accommodations and more.
  • Financial assistance options: The financial difficulties associated with a cancer diagnosis may cause anxiety and stress, which can complicate one's cancer journey. Patient navigators will meet with you individually to identify potential resources that are specific to your situation and assist with paperwork and application processes.
    • Financial Toxicity and Cancer: This series of presentations addresses the many factors that can contribute to financial toxicity, identify strategies to manage debts, share tips for reducing financial burden and outline financial resources that may help.
  • Insurance concerns: Medical insurance can be very confusing. People with cancer and their caregivers often have questions about their insurance, copays or cancer policies. Patient navigators can educate you on the basics of insurance and refer you to appropriate help based on your needs.
  • Local community resources: There are many people in your community who want to help. Patient navigators can connect you with programs in your area that can provide rides for errands, meal delivery, visiting companions, wellness activities and more.
  • Lodging options: There are lodging programs that are specifically available to people with cancer and their caregivers. The options vary depending on length of stay and type of treatment. Patient navigators will refer you to appropriate options.
  • Navigating: Finding your way around our cancer centers can be overwhelming. Patient navigators can assist with questions regarding on-site parking options, building and appointment locations, proximity to lodging accommodations, and other things to consider while at Mayo Clinic for your cancer care.
  • Support resources: Managing a cancer diagnosis can be exhausting and stressful for people with cancer, caregivers and families. Patient navigators are here to help address your needs, suggest referrals and connect you with resources.
  • Transportation options: You may have various transportation options to consider depending on the distance and how frequently you need to travel for your cancer care. These options include both ground and air.

Learn more:

Patient navigator Misti Strong consults with a patient.

Contact us

For established, scheduled or potential patients at Mayo Clinic sites, please contact us with questions about our cancer care and support services.

Minnesota

Find a patient navigator in the Stephen and Barbara Slaggie Family Cancer Education Center, which is in the Gonda building lobby. To request an appointment, call 507-266-9288 or email cecptnavigator@mayo.edu.

Address

Stephen and Barbara Slaggie Family Cancer Education Center

200 1st St SW

Rochester, MN 55905

Arizona

You can find a patient navigator in the patient library in the Mayo Clinic building lobby. To request an appointment, call 480-342-4229 or email arzcecptnavigator@mayo.edu.

Address

Mayo Clinic Building — PHX 3, First Floor, Lobby — Room 101

Mayo Clinic

5881 E. Mayo Blvd.

Phoenix, AZ 85054

Florida

To request an appointment, call 904-956-8358 or email flacecptnavigator@mayo.edu.

Address

Mayo Clinic

4500 San Pablo Road

Jacksonville, FL 32224

Mayo Clinic Building — PHX 3, First Floor, Lobby — Room 101

  • Nov. 18, 2023
  • ART-20530826