Springfield Cancer Center to receive investment from Susan G. Komen Columbus

Susan G. Komen Columbus announced it will invest more than $872,000 in seven patient navigation networks, one of which is Springfield Imaging and Lab Center located in the Springfield Cancer Center.

Patient navigation is a process by which a clinical nurse navigator, social work or peer health advocate guides patients through and around the barriers in the complex cancer care system to ensure a timely diagnosis and treatment. Patient navigators are the first line of defense in the fight against breast cancer.

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“Along the way we offer individualized education and assistance to navigate and access the healthcare system,” said Julie McMahon, director of mission at Komen Columbus. “We break down financial, transportation and childcare barriers.”

McMahon said she believes the $872,000 investment will ensure all patients in the seven networks area have access to the rapidly improving treatments and care available.

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In addition to navigation programming, Komen Columbus offers support peer support for patients and survivors, care kits for newly diagnosed patients, the Komen Treatment Assistance Fund, advocacy initiatives for policies that support access to care.

Special events like Columbus Race for the Cure and Athens Race for the Cure helped to generate the money, in addition to a funding partnership with the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation of Nelsonville.

Since 1993, Komen Columbus has invested more than $30 million to support local breast health programs and breast cancer research.

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