Breast Cancer Navigation program in place at PCH

One of the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center's goals is to be sure its programming meets the needs of the community. It strives to reach that goal through early detection screenings and prevention of cancers as well.

In 2013, the Cancer Center Outreach Program provided several presentations and services that were specifically geared toward Putnam County residents and some of the cancers that most affect them.

With Lou Fordice stepping down from her position as outreach director last September, Registered Nurse Sarah Barnes quickly took over the position.

Over the past year, more than 400 tubes of sunscreen and skin cancer prevention information were given away. The hospital also conducted two skin screenings, where a total of 61 individuals were screened with 18 referred for further investigation.

With October being breast cancer awareness month, the Cancer Center participated in several activities such as DePauw University's annual Dig Pink women's volleyball game. Hospital representatives also visited the high schools to speak about the importance of self breast exams and healthy living.

In hopes of meeting its goals, the Cancer Center has now launched a new breast cancer navigation program, which will provide patients, families and caregivers with assistance to overcome health barriers and expedite access to quality medical and psychosocial care.

"The purpose of it is that if a patient has a biopsy and it's positive, they don't fall through the cracks," mammographer Cindy Mason said. "Somebody is making sure that they are getting their treatments set up. That if they don't have transportation we'll help them figure out somewhere to get that transportation and if they don't have insurance we'll get them to the right resources."

The diagnostic program will begin from the start of the mammogram and will continue all the way through one's care.

"They'll be able to call with any questions so they know what they're supposed to do next," Barnes said. "We're hoping to bridge any gaps with care. We don't want them getting lost in the system."

The hospital hopes to expand this program to other cancers, but chose to begin with breast cancer as it is one of the most commonly seen.

"It's kind of something that has been ongoing, but we're just going to build upon it within the Cancer Center," Barnes added. "Cindy already does all of that, she is very good at keeping track of her patients and following them."

It was noted that navigation has been something the hospital has always done. However, it never had a particular role or leader, which it will now have through both Barnes and Mason.

"Any kind of cancer is such a traumatic time," Mason said. "They're just kind of lost, this way they have an actual person to talk to if they have any questions about he biopsy or anything after they can call me for some questions."The navigation process will begin in patiences who receive positive mammogram results with the aim of connecting patients, family members and caregivers to the appropriate resources. It will also assist those without a primary care physician, coordinate communication between clients, caregivers and medical professions, provide education on cancer and treatment options as well as become an advocate for the client.

For more information on Putnam County Hospital's Cancer Center call 655-2581.