Submitted by Whitney Ann Henry
Photo above: First Lady Jill Biden, Cancer Moonshot
Rodney Haring, PhD, MSW (Seneca Nation), Roswell Park Chair of Indigenous Cancer Health, was one of just 200 experts invited to participate in a recent Cancer Moonshot update call with First Lady Jill Biden, EdD, focused on federal support for cancer patient navigation services. Overtime, Dr. Haring has shared perspectives from an Indigenous cancer health lens and highlighted effective practices such as the Indigenous and Rural Patient Navigation Program he co-developed with Kathryn Glaser, PhD, of the Department of Cancer Prevention & Control in conjunction with partners including the Indian Health Service and Federally Qualified Health Centers. This program has been highlighted as an impactful service model to support cancer patients and community members.
“I’m proud to have been invited to these national policy briefs and discussions. It ensures Indigenous voices are included” says Dr. Haring. “Roswell Park has offered patent navigation services across WNY since 2016. Along with Patient Navigator Coordinator, Whitney Ann Henry, BS (Tuscarora Nation) we are proud that our team has expanded these efforts by developing a model for Indigenous and rural patient navigation which continues and enhances these support services. Our model is being considered as a framework for Indigenous navigation efforts across the country and beyond.”
Starting in 2024, the White House announced that the Biden Administration has put in place billing codes for Medicare to make cancer focused and other principal illness navigation services eligible for reimbursement. The White House shares “The Biden Cancer Moonshot will continue efforts to expand adoption and payment for navigation services. There is more to be done because high-quality navigation includes screening support, preventive, and pre-diagnosis care. In the meantime, this is a big step forward in delivering on President Biden’s promise—providing patient navigation support to every American facing cancer.”
Navigators supporting Haudenosaunee and rural communities in WNY:
- Marissa Haring, MS (Seneca) – Allegany & Cattaraugus Territories, Direct Cell (716-697-3787)
- Chelsea Redeye, BA (Walker River Paiute Nation) – Rural populations and areas adjacent to Cattaraugus Territories, Direct Cell (716-697-3749)
- Rena Phearsdorf, MLS (Seneca) – Rural populations and areas adjacent to Allegany Territory, Direct Cell (716-697-3691)
- Nancy Washburn, BS (Mohawk, Six Nations of the Grand River) – Indian Health Services, Lockport Unit serving Tuscarora Nation, Tonawanda Seneca Nation, and surrounding areas. Direct Cell (716-697-3585)
- Indigenous & Rural Patient Navigation Program: 1-888-RPGUIDE (1-888-774-8433)
