Nurse Navigators
A nurse navigator is a healthcare professional who helps patients navigate an often complex medical system. Navigators work with patients by coordinating care, providing education and support, and increasing understanding of treatment options. They can work in a variety of settings including a hospital or clinic. They may specialize in specific patient conditions, like cancer care.
Some of the key responsibilities of a nurse navigator include:
- Connecting patients to appropriate healthcare professionals and resources
- Assisting with scheduling appointments
- Coordinating care between different providers
- Helping patients navigate the healthcare system and advocate for their needs
- Following up with and answering questions
- Communicating what to expect after surgery and treatments
Kelly Filipponi, RN, OCN - Breast Care
Kelly started her nursing career in Pittsburgh, PA, and graduated in 2004 from the University of Pittsburgh Shadyside Hospital School of Nursing. She continued working for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and began her oncology nursing career in 2008.
She became a nurse to have a positive impact and improve a patient’s day-to-day life. Kelly's connection with oncology patients has taught and inspired her in her life as well.
Her husband's career brought them to Kansas City in 2016. She has worked at North Kansas City Hospital since January 2017. Kelly and her husband have two teenagers who keep their nights and weekends filled with practices, games and voice lessons.
Learn more about our breast health services >
Sarah Newcomer, RN, BSN - Gastrointestinal
Sarah Newcomer graduated from Graceland University's nursing program in 2009 with a BSN and began at NKCH right after graduation.
Sarah has worked as a floor nurse and as a nurse case manager. She became a nurse navigator because she is passionate about patient education and helping patients navigate the hospital/healthcare system.
Sarah is married with two children. In the summer she enjoys going to the lake as often as possible.
Learn more about our gastroenterology services >
Patti Sanchez, RN, BSN, CMSRN, CM - Heart Failure
Patti Sanchez has been a part of NKCH and MH for 24 years in different capacities. She received her BSN at the University of Central Missouri and achieved certification as a medical-surgical nurse.
Patti's goals are to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions by providing individualized heart failure education through the continuum of care. She loves getting to know patients and their families on a personal level while also providing them with the tools they need to feel their best.
In her spare time, Patti enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her three teenage daughters. She loves to travel and to read a good book while relaxing on a beach.
Learn more about our heart and vascular services >
Stephanie Jones, MSN, RN, RNC-OB - Maternity
Stephanie Jones has worked at NKCH since 2010, and her entire nursing career has been in maternity care. She has a master’s degree in nursing leadership.
Stephanie developed the ‘maternity preadmission nurse’ role in 2018, which has evolved into the maternity nurse navigator. She loves being part of the family’s pregnancy journey by explaining what their delivery and stay will look like, answering questions, discussing birth preferences, and calming fears for the families.
In her spare time, she loves to read, travel and spend time with her husband of 20 years.
Learn more about our maternity services >
Allison Dwyer, BSN, RN, OCN - Oncology
Allison graduated from UMKC with a nursing degree in 2011. She has been with NKCH since 2018 and has worked in oncology for over 10 years.
Allison loves building relationships with her patients and their families and supporting them during one of the most difficult times of their lives. She works part time as an oncology nurse navigator and part time in Radiation Oncology.
Allison and her fiancé love concerts, Chiefs games and checking out dog parks with their pup Oscar.
Learn more about our oncology services >
Michelle Cable, BSN, RN, OCN - Oncology
Michelle received her BSN from the University of Central Missouri in 2013 and began her nursing career at NKCH after graduation. She has worked in oncology her entire career.
She found her passion caring for people with cancer and the comfort she can provide during what is often the most difficult time in their lives. As a nurse, she likes the connection she makes with people. She chose to become a navigator to build those connections by educating, advocating and supporting patients through their cancer journey.
Michelle has a son who recently graduated from college. Her puppy Jax keeps her busy at home. She most enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Learn more about our oncology services >
Ashleann Anthony, RN, BSN - Orthopedics/Sports Medicine
Ashleann Anthony graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Missouri and received her nurse's license in 2011. She started at NKCH in September 2022 and previously specialized in dermatology and plastic surgery (cosmetic and reconstructive).
She has been married 10 years to her college sweetheart Tyler and they have three kids, Scarlette (7), Ruby (5) and Johnny (2). When she's not at her kids’ activities or spending quality time with her family, she enjoys decorating, shopping and a good iced coffee.
Ashleann looks forward to continually providing exceptional coordination of care for our patients.
Learn more about our sports medicine services >
Kara Orr, RN, MSN, CNL - Orthopedics
Kara is a dedicated and skilled nurse, who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as orthopedic nurse navigator. With over 10 years of nursing experience, Kara has developed a broad understanding of orthopedic care.
She primarily works with total hip and total knee replacement patients prior to surgery to ensure they know what to expect and have the right resources as they go through surgery. She joined the NKCH team in 2017 and took on the role of orthopedic nurse navigator in 2021.
Learn more about our orthopedic services >