Training financial navigators across diverse research settings: A systematic approach and preliminary findings

BACKGROUND: The negative clinical and psychosocial implications of financial toxicity are well-documented. Financial navigation (FN) offers a solution toward mitigation at the patient-level, but there is limited standardization for training of navigators. METHODS: We describe the process of creating and implementing a standardized training program for navigators across 10 clinical sites for participation in a non-randomized Type II clinical trial of FN. RESULTS: Thirty-two navigators completed 17 h of training that included both study-specific elements and the Financial Advocacy Bootcamp (Levels 1 and 2) offered online through the Association of Cancer Care Centers. At completion of training, participants reported high self-efficacy to engage in FN and high confidence around FN. CONCLUSIONS: Standardized training of oncology financial navigators is essential to ensuring fidelity in FN delivery.