부산대학교 도서관

Despite the significant improvements in oncology prevention, treatment, cancer care and cancer survival rate, cancer and treatment related physical and psychosocial impacts on the patients and their family are still issues that can't be overlooked. Cancer patients and their family report rising unmet supportive care needs. It is a critical role of oncology nursing to provide appropriate psychosocial support to ensure the fulfillment of patients' needs. International cancer organizations endorse cancer patient navigation programs not only to reduce barriers in cancer prevention and treatments but also to promote cancer supportive care. On top of the cancer screening, cancer treatment and symptom management, patient navigation programs also provide information and patient education, and connect resources in psychosocial support. For the minority and vulnerable groups, navigation of financial or social support can further reduce barriers in receiving appropriate cancer treatment and care and thus help restore patients' quality of life. Upon the recent collaborations of the Taiwan government with hospitals and non-governmental cancer organizations, Cancer Resource Service was built as a national initiative to provide patient education, cancer resource support and to promote quality of cancer care. This paper will review the needs and barriers in cancer patients and family, and discuss the international trend of cancer patient navigation and the navigation support provided by the Cancer Resource Center in Taiwan.