Women receiving an abnormal mammogram or a diagnosis of breast cancer can be alarmed and overwhelmed, and not know where to start. At Hilton Head Regional Healthcare, which includes Hilton Head Hospital, Bluffton Medical Campus, and Coastal Carolina Hospital, patients with abnormal imaging may be guided through the patient care process with the support of a Certified Breast Imaging Navigator.

Angie Gillespie, Certified Breast Imaging Navigator at Hilton Head Regional Healthcare, is available to provide one-on-one assistance to women—answering their questions and helping them navigate through the scheduling process to facilitate timely testing. Angie also provides emotional support and calming reassurance at a time when the patient needs it most. She explains medical information and helps patients and their families understand the plan of care.

“The importance of providing emotional support to patients and their families cannot be overstated,” says Angie. “My goal is to simplify the process and remain a constant presence and coordinator of the social, emotional, and educational needs of the patient and their family. I also hope to empower patients to partner with their care team and become an active participant in their care.”

She feels it is important to make a connection with each patient. “I want each patient to know I am accessible and ready to answer any questions or concerns they may have. I provide my work number, personal cell number, and email to every patient.”

Whether a patient is facing breast cancer or a less serious disease of the breasts, a Certified Breast are Imaging Navigator is an invaluable resource, with many benefits to the patient. They:

• Serve as a guide for patients through the continuum of care with breast health issues.
• Provide education for the patient and serve as a support person for all imaging needs which includes additional imaging and breast biopsies. An educational packet is given to each patient during the consult for the biopsy, which include examples of benign findings, high risk findings, and malignant findings.
• Navigate the process of consulting a surgeon, and coordinate scheduling of breast biopsies and additional imaging.
• Work closely with a panel of radiologists and breast surgeons who have a specific interest and background in breast care imaging.