Patient navigators
Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center patient navigators are available to provide nonclinical support to all cancer patients and their families, such as assisting with access to cancer information, resources to help meet day-to-day needs and emotional support. Patient navigators are active members of your healthcare team, assessing and addressing immediate needs and laying the groundwork for future or ongoing support. This service is free to Mayo Clinic patients with cancer and their families.
Patient navigators are both general and population specific, serving people of Hispanic and Latino descent, American Indian and Alaska Native descent, African descent, and adolescents and young adults (AYA). Part of our mission is to address the unique challenges and barriers to care some Mayo Clinic patients with cancer and their families face.
View a discussion about patient navigator services
Watch a Q and A about why culture-specific navigators are important
Patient navigators are able to assist patients and caregivers with many needs associated with a cancer diagnosis and work very closely with the nurse navigation, social work and financial navigation teams.
- Mayo Clinic Connect has an active caregiver group. Join their conversation.
- Mayo Clinic staff offers live support groups for caregivers.
- CancerCare: Offers many different ways to connect with other caregivers, whether it's online or by phone.
- Imerman Angels: Offers a one-on-one mentoring approach to connect caregivers across the country.
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.
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 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. Patients receiving cancer treatment at Mayo Clinic will often be referred to Mayo Clinic's Copay and Grant Assistance Program for additional support.
There are many people in your community who want to help. Patient navigators can connect you with programs in your area that may provide rides for errands, meal delivery, visiting companions, wellness activities and more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Contact us
If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, have an appointment or are considering Mayo Clinic for care, please contact us with questions about our cancer care and support services.
Arizona
Mayo Clinic
5881 E. Mayo Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85054
Phone: 480-574-1907
Email: arzcecptnavigator@mayo.edu
Florida
Mayo Clinic
4500 San Pablo Road
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone: 904-956-8230
Email: flacecptnavigator@mayo.edu
Minnesota
Stephen and Barbara Slaggie Family Cancer Education Center
200 First St. SW
Rochester, MN 55905
Phone: 507-266-9288
Email: cecptnavigator@mayo.edu
