PNAV2303 — Intro to Gerontology
This comprehensive course serves as an essential introduction to the specialty concentration of Patient Navigation within the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oncology, Chronic Disease in Adults/Gerontology, or High-Risk Maternal/Child. Designed for individuals aspiring to navigate patients through the complex landscape of one of these concentrations. This course provides a foundational understanding of key concepts, skills, ethical and legal considerations. Students will leave this course with an understanding of the fundamentals of the chosen specialty concentration, including common conditions, symptoms, and prevalence. Students will be guided to examine the interconnected nature of patient issues and an understanding of the impact of co-occurring disorders. Students will learn patient-centered support techniques and will develop effective communication skills for engaging with patients and their families, emphasizing empathy and cultural competence particular to the specialty concentration. The student will learn strategies for promoting patient self-advocacy and shared decision-making in their specialty contexts. Students will learn to assist patients to navigate the complex healthcare system, including insurance, treatment options, and available support services for the specific specialty concentration. Students will understand the role of patient navigators in facilitating access to appropriate care and resources specific to the specialty concentration. Students will examine the ethical principles guiding patient navigation within the specialty concentration appropriate settings, understand legal considerations, confidentiality, and the importance of advocation for patients' rights. Students will learn the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing challenges, and develop skills for effective teamwork and communication with healthcare professionals, social workers, and community organizations. Students will gain insights into crisis intervention strategies for emergencies, and understand the signs of health risks and learn how to provide appropriate support and referral. In this course, students will learn to enhance cultural competence to navigate diverse populations with sensitivity, and explore the impact of cultural factors on the specialty concentration treatment and develop strategies for inclusive patient navigation. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing participants to become effective patient navigator in the challenging and critical field chosen by the student for one of the following: Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oncology, Chronic Disease in Adults and Geriatric patients, or High-Risk Maternal/Child care. Through case studies, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities, participants will gain the expertise needed to support individuals on their journey to their specialty concentration.