A team of oncology nurses will assist in getting cancer patients the care they need pre and post-diagnosis.

Eight nurse navigator positions are being created in a partnership between Horizon and Vitalité Health Networks

They’ll be a part of the Cancer Patient Navigation Program. and will work with patients to receive support and treatment.

“About 5,000 New Brunswickers are diagnosed with cancer every year,” says Health Minister Bruce Fitch. “This is another way we are working to ensure these patients receive help in accessing the resources they need.”

The nurse navigators will be available to help address physical, emotional, and practical concerns that arise. They will provide patients with guidance, education, and resources to help them make informed decisions in the pre-diagnostic and post-treatment phases.

“Cancer patient navigation is a process where a person with a suspicious finding or known cancer is guided through each step in the cancer-care journey,” said Dr. Eshwar Kumar, medical officer with the New Brunswick Cancer Network. “This program is designed to address the demonstrated needs of cancer patients and their families, in the community.”

Referral to the Oncology Nurse Navigator program can be initiated as early as suspicion of cancer is made by any healthcare professional.