Silena Thomas is the Patient Navigator for American Indian and Alaska Native communities at the Mayo Clinic Transplant Center in Phoenix, AZ. In her role, she plays a key part in coordinating care and supporting American Indian and Alaska Native patients who are in need of organ donations. 

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, we had the opportunity to sit down with Ms. Silena Thomas to learn about her journey in the field of transplantation and the important work she does in supporting American Indian and Alaska Native communities within the transplant network.

What unique challenges do Native American patients face when navigating transplant care?

Native American patients face numerous challenges, many of which can significantly impact their health outcomes. Key issues include limited health literacy, inadequate language services, long travel distances for appointments, lack of cell phone service or Wi-Fi, financial barriers, and insufficient family support. Additionally, a lack of diversity in the healthcare workforce contributes to these challenges, as non-Native healthcare providers may not fully understand the unique struggles these patients face, leading to patients feeling embarrassed or reluctant to share their difficulties.

How do you address specific cultural needs or preferences for your Native American patients?

In my community, introductions hold significant importance, so I always begin with that. When patients know where you're from, it helps them feel that you understand their circumstances and the challenges they face in accessing healthcare. Speaking the same language is also essential, both as a need and a preference. It allows patients to feel more comfortable and connected, often leading them to share more information right away.

What are some ways that you advocate for Native American patients within the healthcare system?

I help coordinate resources for lodging, transportation, and language services. Additionally, I support staff and providers in connecting with patients or their tribal healthcare facilities. Community outreach plays a crucial role in supporting patients before they travel to the transplant center. Meeting with patients in person to address their questions is highly effective and helps build their confidence for the journey ahead.

What advice would you give to others in healthcare roles on how to better support Native American patients?

I strongly recommend creating a role similar to mine, with an emphasis on hiring individuals who have lived experience within the community they serve. Staff education is also crucial; being able to empathize with the patients you treat can truly make a difference in their care.

Can you share a memorable experience that impacted you personally or professionally in this role?

I have built a strong relationship with a patient and his wife, who handles all communication on his behalf and keeps me updated on his appointments and progress. She has also confided in me about the emotional toll of being a primary caregiver and trusted me enough to share her experiences. I’ve provided her with caregiver resources and continually encouraged her to reach out whenever needed. She has repeatedly expressed how grateful they are for my support, saying they don’t know what they would have done without me. She believes that other healthcare facilities should adopt similar roles to offer this kind of support.

Silena Thomas is the Patient Navigator for American Indian and Alaska Native communities at the Mayo Clinic Transplant Center in Phoenix, AZ. In her role, she plays a key part in coordinating care and supporting American Indian and Alaska Native patients who are in need of organ donations. 

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, we had the opportunity to sit down with Ms. Silena Thomas to learn about her journey in the field of transplantation and the important work she does in supporting American Indian and Alaska Native communities within the transplant network.

What unique challenges do Native American patients face when navigating transplant care?

Native American patients face numerous challenges, many of which can significantly impact their health outcomes. Key issues include limited health literacy, inadequate language services, long travel distances for appointments, lack of cell phone service or Wi-Fi, financial barriers, and insufficient family support. Additionally, a lack of diversity in the healthcare workforce contributes to these challenges, as non-Native healthcare providers may not fully understand the unique struggles these patients face, leading to patients feeling embarrassed or reluctant to share their difficulties.

How do you address specific cultural needs or preferences for your Native American patients?

In my community, introductions hold significant importance, so I always begin with that. When patients know where you're from, it helps them feel that you understand their circumstances and the challenges they face in accessing healthcare. Speaking the same language is also essential, both as a need and a preference. It allows patients to feel more comfortable and connected, often leading them to share more information right away.

What are some ways that you advocate for Native American patients within the healthcare system?

I help coordinate resources for lodging, transportation, and language services. Additionally, I support staff and providers in connecting with patients or their tribal healthcare facilities. Community outreach plays a crucial role in supporting patients before they travel to the transplant center. Meeting with patients in person to address their questions is highly effective and helps build their confidence for the journey ahead.

What advice would you give to others in healthcare roles on how to better support Native American patients?

I strongly recommend creating a role similar to mine, with an emphasis on hiring individuals who have lived experience within the community they serve. Staff education is also crucial; being able to empathize with the patients you treat can truly make a difference in their care.

Can you share a memorable experience that impacted you personally or professionally in this role?

I have built a strong relationship with a patient and his wife, who handles all communication on his behalf and keeps me updated on his appointments and progress. She has also confided in me about the emotional toll of being a primary caregiver and trusted me enough to share her experiences. I’ve provided her with caregiver resources and continually encouraged her to reach out whenever needed. She has repeatedly expressed how grateful they are for my support, saying they don’t know what they would have done without me. She believes that other healthcare facilities should adopt similar roles to offer this kind of support.