A randomized controlled prospective trial evaluating the effectiveness of a nurse navigation program for gastrointestinal cancer patients undergoing oncological treatment. Upon accrual, patients will be randomized 1:1 to receive standard of care plus ONN service (n = 107) or standard of care only (without ONN service; n = 107). Patients in both arms will be assessed for acute care utilization and overall survival (OS) rate at 6 months. Anticipated accrual period will be 30 months.
The purpose of this study is to learn about the impact of the Oncology Nurse Navigation program on the frequency of Emergency Department, urgent care visits and inpatient hospital admissions; and overall survival rate at 6 months. The investigators aim to understand if prompt and effective coordination of care provided by Oncology Nurse Navigation (ONN) service will reduce the number of avoidable, unplanned ED visits and hospitalizations, as well as adding measurable value to cancer care, and improve patient overall survival.