Story By ROSE MYERS Marshall Medical Centers

A cancer diagnosis is a scary and confusing pathway that no one should have to travel alone. At the Marshall Cancer Care Center, patients are navigated through the entire process by two specially-trained employees.

The newest is Claire Barwick, who began working as patient navigator in July. After she completed her degree in public health, she knew this was the job for her. 

“I walk alongside the patient and family through diagnosis, treatment and beyond,” she explains. “I make sure they are connected with resources. I make sure they feel supported and I provide emotional support which looks different with every patient. It’s what I’m good at. It’s like a calling. I love the emotional side.”

Patients see Claire on their first day of treatment, when she introduces herself and welcomes them with a goody bag. She explains what she can help with and shares her contact information. She suggests patients get a notebook to write down all the questions that pop up at home and invites them to bring it back to her for answers. She asks whether they have a support system. She maintains contact as treatment progresses, making sure they have transportation and personal needs throughout the journey. 

“We look at the whole picture rather than just a diagnosis or a patient,” she says. “I’m looking at the person as a whole.”

That’s the basis of the study of public health, which deals with a very broad spectrum of health disparities and determinants, prevention and intervention of disease. It also encompasses grief counseling, education and social work. 

 “Cancer is very lonely and scary,” Claire says. “It’s hard to ask for help. It’s hard for anybody.”

Of course, medical care comes first for patients. On the first visit, Nurse Navigator Tara Burnor, RN, accompanies patients while the physician starts assessing needs. She collaborates with Claire to obtain needed resources. As a nationally oncology certified registered nurse with twenty-four years of experience, Tara makes sure patients understand the diagnosis they heard.  She serves as another voice advocating for the patient while they receive chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatments at the Cancer Care Center. 

As a team of oncology navigators, Tara and Claire can advocate, educate and counsel cancer patients and families, ensure all adult patients with an oncology diagnosis receive quality care as well as comprehensive services. Some of the ways they can help patients include:

• Serving as liaison for the medical staff, patient and community.

• Meeting with patients at time of diagnosis or referral.

• Guiding patient through referrals and treatments. 

• Connecting patient/family members to services or resources to aid in improved outcomes and quality of life, such as nutrition, financial assistance, spiritual care and counseling services.

• Keeping contact with patient as needed to identify potential areas of concern, both physical signs/symptoms as well as emotional needs to ensure early intervention.

• Providing education and follow-up with patients prior to, during and following chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

• Facilitating resources of various support groups across the area.

What these two bring to the table adds another layer of care and compassion to the high caliber staff providing treatments at the local facility, according to Brandon Evans, who oversees it.

“As the director of the Cancer Center, I am confident that our patients and their families are in the best hands,” adds Brandon Evans. “Our team of navigators, along with every member of our staff, brings not only expertise but also a genuine heart to the care we provide. It is a breath of fresh air to know that excellent, compassionate treatment is available right here—close to home. We are committed to walking alongside each patient on their journey, ensuring they feel supported, understood and cared for every step of the way.”

Claire’s long term goal is to continue her education to earn a master’s degree in mental health counseling. Providing counseling to patients one-on-one and leading grief support groups are integral parts of the total care package she wants to offer as patient navigator. 

“My deepest hope is that every person who walks through our doors feels truly seen, supported and reminded they’re not alone in this journey. For those who feel they have no one, I offer my presence — to sit beside them, to share their tears, and to walk with them through the journey. Healing begins with connection, and I’m here to help them find their way back to wholeness.”