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Many transplant programs utilize the role of transplant case manager/coordinator/navigator (CM) to coordinate care and services for patients undergoing a blood or marrow transplant. There is minimal literature available to describe the significance of the CM role for Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT) patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the patient’s perception of both importance and performance of selected core competencies by the BMT CM.
Methods, Intervention, & Analysis
Adult patients who had received a transplant were surveyed to determine the importance and performance of five selected core competencies (Oncology Nursing Society Oncology Nurse Navigator Core Competencies, 2013). The anonymous survey used a five item Likert scale to assess importance and performance of the core competencies. Demographic questions included: cancer diagnosis, type of transplant, sex, time since transplant, and distance traveled to transplant center. Over a period of 5 weeks, the survey was distributed to patients at check-in for a post-transplant clinic appointment. Eighty surveys were distributed with a 75% return rate. 56 surveys were used for analysis of importance and performance of core competencies.
Findings & Interpretation
Overall, the results were exceedingly positive. The majority of patients perceived the importance of the five competencies as “very important.” Patients also indicated that they “strongly agreed” that CMs are consistently performing the five core competencies. No significant differences were found when comparing sex, type of transplant, distance travelled, time since transplant or diagnosis. Numerous positive comments were included by the patients. The high return rate may be interpreted that patients value the role and feel a vested interest in sharing their view regarding the role. Limitations to this study include the small sample size and only one institution is represented.
Discussion & Implications
The role of case manager/coordinator/navigator has been associated with positive outcomes, including increased satisfaction, increased cost effectiveness of care, and improved adherence to treatment regimens. The transplant case manager plays a significant role in the care of the BMT patient. This study suggests that patients find the role of case manager extremely valuable.