from The Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators
Ashley Marks, a gynecologic oncology nurse navigator at Woman’s Hospital, was honored with the 2018 Oncology Navigation Excellence Award from The Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators (AONN+). The national award recognizes an oncology navigator for his or her outstanding contributions to oncology navigation, patient care and education.
Cancer is a challenging disease to navigate alone, and many cancer patients at Woman’s need additional support. Marks is a registered nurse and is certified in oncology nursing, breast care, hospice and palliative care. She guides gynecologic oncology patients from diagnosis to survivorship, helping them understand their condition and treatments as well as manage side effects; coordinates care among medical specialists; and connects patients to available community resources to overcome barriers to care. She also helps patients manage their psychosocial needs, such as work, school and home environments; relationships; mental and emotional health; and financial concerns.
“Ashley advocates for the patient and is unafraid to speak up when needed to be sure their needs and goals are always a priority,” said Mary Ann Smith, Woman’s director of Med-Surg, Oncology and Infusion. “Many patients have expressed that they would not have made it without Ashley. She is the vital link among the office practices, the outpatient infusion clinic, and the inpatient unit, not only for the patients but for the nurses as well, providing them with vital information regarding the patient, her treatment, and any barriers or special needs. Ashley is truly a role model for nurse navigators, and I am proud that she supports and navigates Woman’s patients.”
Marks received the award at the AONN+ Navigation & Survivorship Conference in Dallas on November 17.
Pictured: Ashley Marks with the 2018 AONN+ Oncology Navigation Excellence Award