Memorial Heroes: Elizabeth Lopez, RN CN-BC Breast Health Patient Navigator
October 2, 2020
What is your official title?
Breast Health Patient Navigator.
How long have you worked here at Memorial Medical Center?
I’ve worked at MMC for a little over 9 years.
How did you come into this position?
I was working in Home Health at MMC when the decision to close the department came about. HR really worked hard in reassigning the staff to positions within MMC. Laura Pierce approached me with a newly created nursing position which worked closely with the MMC Cancer Center. Knowing my background, she really felt it was a perfect fit for me. She was correct!
What was your motivation for a career in Healthcare?
After being a patient many years ago, I watched in awe and admired the health care team who took care of me. I wanted to be a part of that kind of team and pay it forward in being a part of a patient’s healing.
What is a typical day like for you?
My day usually consists of educating and preparing a patient for their biopsy along with assisting the Radiologist with the biopsy.This includes tracking and managing their biopsy results.I also prepare newly diagnosed breast cancer patient’s cases to be presented to our Breast Cancer Tumor Board.I am also collaborating with team members to launch and manage the Low Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening program
How would you describe your role’s responsibilities?
I am usually the first person a patient interacts with prior to having a biopsy done. I do a lot of education and hopefully help the patient ease their fears. If they are diagnosed with cancer, I am here to help navigate and support them through their cancer journey.
In what areas do you help patients?
I help educate my patients and help support them and their families through their journey whether it be helping them find resources in the community or just lending a listening ear.
What are some of your interests outside of work?
I enjoy running, road trips, raising ducks, and spending time with my family and friends.
What is your favorite part about working for Memorial Medical Center?
I really feel a sense of family with my MMC family.We laugh, cry, disagree, yet support each other.More importantly, we come together as a team to provide the best care for our patients.