At Mahaska Health the Oncology Nurse Navigator serves as a dedicated guide for patients and families throughout the cancer care journey—from initial diagnosis through treatment, recovery, and survivorship. This role delivers patient-centered care using the nursing process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring timely coordination of services and continuity across the care continuum. The Navigator provides comprehensive patient education, supports informed decision‑making, and assists physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants in all aspects of oncology care. This position upholds the highest standards of professional nursing practice in alignment with the established methods, procedures, and values of Mahaska Health and the Medical Group.
Essential job responsibilities include but are not limited to,
- Act as a primary contact for patients and families from the initial cancer diagnosis
- Follow patients through testing and treatment, identifying needs and resources for patients along the journey.
- Assist in the coordination of care across the continuum and provide guidance.
- Will assist with education for patients and families, coordinating with other key members of the care team.
- Assist with the development and maintenance of policies and procedures related to cancer care patients.
- Serve as an advocate and counselor for oncology patients
- Supports and empowers patients by reducing “barriers to care”
- Monitors patient progress, reviews results with providers and takes appropriate follow-up actions with patients
- Assists with patient referrals and insurance authorizations
- Displays empathy and exemplary customer care skills
- Collaborates with cancer team and other departments to ensure that appropriate follow-up appointments and testing are scheduled
- Supportive of Tumor Board, Cancer Care Committee, community events and outreach for Cancer Support Group, Screening and Prevention Events and Survivorship.
- Provides information and assistance that enhances the workflow and improves the efficiency of cancer care at Mahaska Health
- Works effectively with patients of varied ages, racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds
- Demonstrates responsibility and accountability for his/her own practice.
Job Requirements include but are not limited to,
- A graduate from an accredited school of nursing and currently licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of Iowa (or) a graduate from an accredited school of nursing and currently licensed as a Registered Nurse able to work in the state of Iowa. LPN license will be taken into consideration.
- Current Iowa RN/LPN license with minimum 3 years of clinical experience
- Must have strong computer skills
- ONC certification preferred
- Experience with Oncology preferred
- Experience with chemotherapy preferred
- Experience with cancer care patients preferred
- Experience with Epic preferred
