ScreenNJ partnered with New Jersey Family Magazine on a year-long digital campaign aimed at increasing awareness of cancer screenings, prevention, and statewide resources. NJFamily spotlighted two expert interviews monthly, covering many cancer-related topics, such as LGBTQ+ health, clinical trials, the importance of cancer screenings, patient navigation, smoking cessation, and shared decision-making. The articles addressed barriers that historically medically underserved communities face.

This campaign educated readers on the importance of and promoted access to screenings and empowered individuals to take control of their health. By providing valuable insights from experts, we aim to equip New Jerseyans with potentially lifesaving knowledge.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that all New Jerseyans have access to resources for cancer prevention and treatment. We hope that through these interviews and discussions, people are inspired to prioritize their health, seek screenings, and ultimately, reduce the cancer burden in New Jersey.

Providing Patient Navigation

With timely and appropriate follow-up care and treatment, patient navigation services may improve health equity among populations who often have lower screening rates. That’s why our Prevention & Care Navigation Team aims to provide these services to all patients and community members.

Our navigators educate patients and community members about cancer risk factors and prevention screenings by implementing educational campaigns, programs, and initiatives. Through our community intervention model, our team works with state health agencies, clinical providers, and other key organizations to develop, implement, and promote effective cancer prevention and screening practices.  Our patient navigators conduct outreach and support to recruit and guide eligible people into and through screening. The following services are included in the program:

• Coordination of timely scheduling of tests, procedures, appointments, and treatments.
• Addressing barriers and linking patients and families to community resources.
• Collaborating with community partners and clinical providers around cancer screening initiatives.
• Providing education and consultation to increase willingness to proceed with screening.