Nurse Navigator

Curry Health Network•Gold Beach, OR

About The Position

The Oncology Nurse Navigator is a professional registered nurse with oncology-specific clinical knowledge who provides individualized assistance to patients, families, and caregivers to help overcome barriers within the healthcare system. Using the nursing process, the navigator educates, advocates, and coordinates care to promote informed decision-making and seamless transitions throughout the cancer continuum. This position ensures quality and cost-effective care by coordinating services across multiple disciplines in accordance with provider plans, national guidelines, and the scope of nursing practice. The navigator provides direct and indirect care, assists with patient support needs, and fosters collaboration among providers, departments, and community resources to deliver comprehensive, compassionate oncology care.

Requirements

Current unencumbered Oregon Registered Nurse (RN) license (BSN and Oncology Certification preferred).
Current AHA BLS certification required; ACLS within six months of hire.
Strong understanding of oncology care and treatment methodologies.
Knowledge of medical billing and insurance authorizations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and EMR systems.
Excellent communication, clinical judgment, and organizational skills.
Strong ability to multitask and prioritize competing demands.
Commitment to holistic, patient-centered care.
Must obtain Oncology Nurse Navigation Certification within three years of navigation experience.
BLS (Basic Life Support)
ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) within six months of hire
Oregon RN License
FIT Test
Membership in Oncology Nursing Society
ONS/ONCC Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ)
Required Upon Hire: Oncology Navigator Training (14 CEUs)
Oncology Communication Skills for Navigators
Future Requirement: Obtain Oncology Nurse Navigation Certification after three years of direct navigation experience.

Nice To Haves

BSN and Oncology Certification preferred
Preferred experience with chemotherapy infusion and oncology case management.
Membership in the Academy of Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators preferred.

Responsibilities

Establishes and maintains relationships with patients from diagnosis through survivorship or end of life.
Triages complex cases and coordinates referrals to ensure timely, equitable care and appropriate follow-up.
Assesses patient needs and connects them with local, regional, and national resources.
Ensures patients understand their plan of care, educates them on next steps, and tracks progress.
Identifies and addresses barriers to care by coordinating with providers, departments, and external facilities.
Connects patients to supportive services such as the American Cancer Society, wig and prosthesis programs, and counseling resources.
Develops and maintains effective working relationships with internal staff, external providers, and community partners.
Advocates for patients by ensuring clear communication among the care team and empowering patient participation.
Creates and delivers individualized teaching plans, evaluating comprehension and reinforcing education on diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle.
Participates in Tumor Board preparation, attendance, and follow-up activities.
Contributes to community outreach efforts and educational events to promote awareness of oncology services.
Monitors patients after therapy completion to ensure appropriate follow-up, surveillance testing, and ongoing support.
Tracks metrics related to oncology navigation performance and outcomes.
Reads and interprets medical documentation, orders, and care plans.
Writes reports and maintains accurate documentation in accordance with policy.
Demonstrates exceptional customer service and teamwork.
Maintains familiarity with all departmental and organizational policies, procedures, and protocols.
Ensures patient and family interactions are professional, compassionate, and consistent with CHN standards.