Registered nurse Kelly Pietryka joined Rome Health as the new breast health nurse navigator in its Breast Imaging Center of Excellence.
With 27 years of nursing experience, Pietryka comes to Rome Health with an extensive nursing background in radiation oncology, medical oncology, plastic surgery and health coaching.
“Kelly’s strong background enables her to uniquely understand the workings of the healthcare system and to help patients better understand each step of the process as they begin their journey to wellness,” said Medical Imaging Director Sharon M. Carson. “The ability to communicate to patients exactly what to expect when undergoing a procedure helps reduce anxiety, allowing them to become an informed and active participant in their treatment plan.”
“I am excited and honored to become part of this exceptional team,” Pietryka said. “I look forward to using my background to help guide, educate and support our patients as they move through their medical journey from diagnosis, to treatment and back to wellness.”
“Not every abnormal mammogram finding ends up being a serious diagnosis, but it can be a very anxious time,” she said. “As a navigator, I will remain that ongoing consistent point of contact for our patients so they understand exactly what is going on each step of the way.”
As breast health nurse navigator, Pietryka will work with each patient individually when an abnormal finding is present on mammography.
Working closely with the radiologist and the referring physician, she will guide patients through the process by explaining clinical information, treatment options, and next steps in everyday language.
She will also help coordinate the care team beginning with the radiologist and referring provider, bringing in surgical consult and other resources as necessary to ensure that every patient receives the most coordinated and advanced care possible.
Rome Health’s Breast Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence and participates in the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers program, as evidence of its commitment to provide each patient with the highest quality of care.