New Breast Nurse Navigator at Beaufort Memorial Breast Health Centers
April 3, 2024
Chimene Heyward, MSN, RN, has joined the Beaufort Memorial Breast Health Centers in Beaufort and Okatie as a breast care nurse navigator. At the centers, Heyward guides breast cancer patients from diagnosis through treatment and survivorship, providing support and resources, answering questions and serving as a primary point of contact. Acting as a patient advocate, she enjoys educating and empowering breast cancer patients so they can make the best decisions for their life situation and goals.
“I believe patient education is an invaluable tool in healthcare. I love to empower my patients with knowledge so they can take an active role in their care,” Heyward says.
Experienced in both nursing and nurse education, Heyward transitioned to the Beaufort Memorial Breast Health Centers as breast care nurse navigator earlier this year. She joined Beaufort Memorial in 2011 as a critical care nurse and has worked in several roles, including as a chemotherapy nurse in medical oncology. Prior to becoming a nurse navigator, she was a clinical instructor and credits that background with her multi-pronged approach to helping patients understand their diagnosis and care plan.
The Estill, South Carolina, native developed an interest in oncology from an early age when family members succumbed to the disease. As a nurse, she continues to be fascinated by ongoing advancements in treatment options and the highly personalized approach in breast cancer care.
The proud Navy mom holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University and a Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator from Chamberlain College of Nursing in Addison, Illinois.
The nationally recognized Beaufort Memorial Breast Health Centers provide a calm and relaxing atmosphere, as well as a comprehensive suite of breast care services. The centers are fully accredited by the American College of Radiology and National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. The teams of board-certified specialists use the latest technology and techniques for screenings, mammograms, consultations, as well as advanced treatments if they are needed.
Accredited breast centers must offer patients coordinated, comprehensive care; access to a full range of state-of-the-art services; and information about ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options. The Beaufort Memorial Breast Health Centers offer a variety of services, including digital 3D mammography; automated breast ultrasound screening (Beaufort location only); diagnostic breast biopsy, MRI and ultrasound; advanced breast cancer treatments and clinical trials; a full range of breast surgeries; bone density screenings; patient care navigation; and a genetics and high-risk breast program.
Heyward can be reached at 843-522-5895.
