What Cancer Navigation Includes
- Diagnosis support: Help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options
- Second opinion facilitation: Connect patients with leading cancer centers for second opinions
- Treatment coordination: Coordinate care between oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists
- Clinical trial identification: Identify relevant clinical trials that may provide access to cutting-edge treatments
- Financial navigation: Help patients understand their benefits and access financial assistance programs
- Emotional support: Connect patients with mental health support and peer support groups
The Second Opinion Opportunity
Second opinions for cancer diagnoses change the treatment plan in 20–30% of cases. A patient diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer who gets a second opinion at a major cancer center may learn they are actually stage 2 — with dramatically different treatment options and outcomes. Second opinions are one of the highest-value interventions in cancer care management.
Cancer Navigation ROI
IQ Insight
Cancer navigation programs consistently demonstrate ROI of 3:1 to 5:1. A program that costs $500 per cancer patient and saves $5,000–$20,000 in unnecessary treatment, reduced complications, and shorter hospital stays delivers exceptional value. The ROI is even higher when the program prevents a misdiagnosis or identifies a more effective treatment option.