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Patient navigation in neuro-oncology: A scoping review of programs supporting patients with CNS tumors
Steven Shafeek1, Kevin Placide1, Cleopatra Elshiekh2
1CUNY School of Medicine, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
Patients with primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors and brain metastases face substantial barriers across the cancer care continuum, including cognitive impairment, complex care transitions, psychosocial distress, and financial hardship. Patient navigation programs aim to support patients and caregivers by facilitating access to services and coordinating care, yet their role in neuro-oncology remains poorly characterized. This scoping review examines the structure, delivery, and reported outcomes of patient navigation programs for individuals with CNS tumors.
Methods:
We conducted a comprehensive literature search of Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central to identify studies published from 1990 onward describing patient navigation interventions for adults with primary CNS tumors or brain metastases. Data were extracted on study design, intervention focus, navigator role, delivery modality, population characteristics, and reported outcomes.
Recent Findings:
Twenty-two studies met inclusion criteria, including 15 conference abstracts and 7 peer-reviewed journal articles. Navigation programs varied in structure but commonly addressed care coordination, patient education, emotional support, financial navigation, and access to clinical trials. Services were delivered in person, by telephone, or through hybrid models. Navigators included nurses, social workers, clinical trial coordinators, and non-clinical staff. Reported outcomes included improved care transitions, increased patient satisfaction, enhanced emotional well-being, reduced emergency department utilization, and, in some programs, reduced financial burden and increased clinical trial enrollment. Barriers included cognitive limitations, challenges in outcome measurement, and inconsistent documentation.
Summary:
Patient navigation programs in neuro-oncology show promise in addressing complex patient needs, but additional high-quality outcomes data are needed to inform future implementation.
