Fast Five Q&A with breast care navigator Tiffanie Beckner

As part of our Fast Five series, HCA Virginia is connecting with our colleagues to share quick insight into the work they do to support the patients in their communities.

Tiffanie Beckner, is a breast cancer nurse navigator and registered nurse (R.N.) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.). She supports Sarah Cannon at LewisGale Medical Center, part of the HCA Virginia Health System. 

Here is our Fast Five Q&A with Tiffanie:

1. Why did you choose to become a breast cancer nurse navigator; what inspired you? 
   
   I have always loved talking and getting to know patients aside from their diagnosis. Throughout my experience as a nurse, I saw that many individuals lack support or may not understand a great deal when it comes to healthcare. It was my inspiration to advocate and ensure patients' concerns and desires are acknowledged and heard.
    
2. Share what a nurse navigator offers to patients and your approach to patient care.
   
   Nurse Navigators offer resources and education for patients to help alleviate barriers they may have to help make their journey through treatment easier. A Navigator is like a tour guide through cancer. We support patients through the good and the bad, and we fight cancer with them. We educate, encourage, and act as their confidant.
    
3. When is a patient connected to you, and how long are you a part of their care team?
   
   Navigators try to connect from the moment of initial diagnosis to ensure patients know what to expect next. The length of time a patient is navigated depends on the patient's specific treatment plan, so on average six months or longer.
    
4. What is something people may not know about your job?
   
   At times, navigators may be the first person to speak with a patient after they have received their diagnosis. This can be a very emotional and overwhelming conversation and it's at this time we try to connect and ease fears.
    
5. What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their journey with breast cancer?
   
   It's okay to cry or to be angry. Don't panic and breathe! Take one day at a time. There are no silly questions. Let your love ones and friends know what they can do to help you.

Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to get to know you and help others understand more about the important work that you do as a nurse navigator, Tiffanie!!

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals in Virginia provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.