New support services manager combines nursing, program development background to enhance patient care

As a nurse, Angela Knight, MSN, understands the importance of a positive patient experience. She’s also a manager trained in program development. 

In her new role as support services manager at Siteman Cancer Center, Knight will draw upon both areas of expertise to enhance patient care and satisfaction.

“I am absolutely thrilled to have joined this team of incredibly talented and dedicated health-care professionals at Siteman Cancer Center,” she said. “As a nurse, a performance improvement specialist and a leader, I understand the intricacies and importance of the patient experience. I look forward to working with my new team members to further enhance the care of our patients.”

In her role, Knight oversees:

• Barnard Health and Cancer Information Center, which serves patients, their families, medical professionals and others who need current information on cancer prevention; early detection, diagnosis and treatment; coping; and community resources;
• Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC), a group of patients, caregivers and staff members who work to enhance the patient experience for current and future patients;
• Patient and family services, including patient navigation, counseling and emotional support and the survivorshipand volunteer programs; and
• Siteman’s lung cancer screening program.

Knight joins Siteman from OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton, Ill., where she managed the oncology program, including medical oncology, radiation therapy and infusion services. Before that, she worked as a bedside nurse for four years at OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group in Peoria, Ill.

She received her master of science in nursing degree from Walden University and is certified in Lean Six Sigma in health care, a training program that emphasizes the standardization of work processes to improve efficiency and patient care and satisfaction.

Christi Longnecker, vice president of oncology services at Siteman, said Knight is a welcome addition to Siteman’s strong support services team.

“Angela understands the care team’s role not only in treating cancer but in tending to the emotional and other support needs of our patients,” Longnecker said. “Her experience and training will help us to provide even better care for our patients.”