What is the Oncology Nurse Navigator Program?

A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming, and our nurse navigators are here to help. Our navigation program provides support and education to you and your loved ones throughout your cancer treatment journey. We help you arrange appointments, identify and address barriers to care that you may have and provide access to additional community resources.

According to the Oncology Nursing Society , "navigation in oncology has demonstrated benefits for people at risk for or diagnosed with cancer."

These benefits may include:

  • Shorter time to diagnosis and start of treatment
  • Increased patient and caregiver knowledge
  • Better adherence to recommended care 
  • Improved quality of life
  • Potential for cost reduction through reduced rates of ER visits and readmission


Compassionate, efficient care is our priority and we are dedicated to making your experience as easy as possible for you and your loved ones.

What Do the Oncology Nurse Navigators Do?

Our Oncology Nurse Navigators may assist with many aspects of the cancer treatment journey. Their responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Provide patient education regarding diagnosis, treatment plan and survivorship
  • Assist with the coordination of care from diagnosis to survivorship
  • Act as a single point of contact for the patient, caregivers and cancer care team
  • Identify and break down barriers to care
  • Identify community resources to assist in the patient care journey
  • Provide community education on prevention and screening
  • Facilitate support group offerings

Who Are the Oncology Nurse Navigators?

Our Oncology Nurse Navigators are experienced oncology registered nurses with a background in a variety of cancer care settings. Our navigators are here to empower patients and families with support and education needed to navigate the cancer treatment journey, from diagnosis to survivorship.

In addition to an Oncology Nurse Navigator, your cancer care team will include a specialized, multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses and specialists who are dedicated to providing a personalized cancer care experience.

Meet Our Oncology Nurse Navigators

Meet the team behind our Oncology Nurse Navigator Program.

Photo of Andrea Kassem, RN, OCN, CBCN, NBC-HWC

Andrea Kassem, RN, OCN, CBCN, NBC-HWC

Lead Oncology Navigator

Breast Cancer and Genetic Screening

A Breast Care Nurse Navigator for the Baptist Health System in San Antonio, TX, Andrea Kassem is an experienced Oncology Certified Nurse and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She holds three additional oncology nursing certifications adding to her unique knowledge and experience. In addition, Andrea is an active member in a number of Professional Oncology Nursing Organizations.

Andrea is passionate about working with women diagnosed with breast cancer not only to guide them through their treatment journey but to help them discover their personal strengths and optimal vision of health as cancer survivors. Her role as a navigator allows her to provide one-on one personalized support to patients and their caregivers throughout their entire cancer journey. A consistent face and voice through appointments, procedures and treatment, she empowers women with education and is available for 1:1 support. As a health coach, Andrea believes in constant curiosity, positivity, compassion and kindness. Through deep listening, she connects with patients and addresses and defines the critical components that women face before, during and after their journey.

Above all, Andrea’s mission is to empower individuals to take charge of their health and wellness so they can live a life that is authentic, joyful and healthy.

Hear from Our Lead Navigator

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