News Summary
Premera Blue Cross has announced an expansion of its cancer care support through the integration of Premera Cancer Support, powered by Thyme Care, effective January 1, 2026. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive navigation and assistance for members diagnosed with cancer, offering 24/7 access to a dedicated team of oncology-trained professionals. The program addresses both clinical and non-clinical needs for members and their caregivers at no additional cost, thereby enhancing the quality of cancer care provided within the community.
Mountlake Terrace, Wash. – Premera Blue Cross, a leading not-for-profit health plan in the Pacific Northwest, has significantly enhanced its cancer care support for members through an expanded case management program, effective January 1, 2026. This strategic expansion integrates Premera Cancer Support, powered by Thyme Care, into its existing Personal Health Support program, aiming to provide comprehensive and personalized assistance to members navigating a cancer diagnosis. This initiative underscores Premera’s ongoing commitment to improving access to high-quality care and supporting its members during one of life’s most challenging health journeys.
Enhanced Support for a Complex Journey
The expanded program is designed to offer a more robust and streamlined experience for individuals facing cancer. A cancer diagnosis is often overwhelming and complex, not only for the patient but also for their families and caregivers. Premera’s enhanced Personal Health Support program builds upon its established model of integrated case management, which already provides one-on-one support to members with various complex health situations at no additional cost.
The newly integrated Premera Cancer Support, developed in partnership with Thyme Care, delivers evidence-based, virtual cancer care navigation and support services. Eligible Premera Blue Cross members gain access to an oncology-trained team of clinicians, nurses, social workers, and navigators, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This team serves as a crucial resource, offering guidance and assistance at every stage of the cancer journey, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.
Comprehensive Services Offered
The comprehensive support extends across multiple critical areas:
- Clinical Guidance: The care team provides clarity on symptoms, potential treatment side effects, and can address mental health needs. They also offer support for palliative care and urgent care, and assist members in finding specialists for second opinions. Getting a second opinion is often encouraged and covered by Premera plans at the same cost as an office visit, with virtual connections to specialists made easier through services like 2nd.MD by Accolade.
- Addressing Non-Clinical Barriers: Recognizing that practical challenges can significantly impact care, the program helps identify and connect members to local resources for assistance with essential needs such as food, transportation, in-home care, and financial support.
- Caregiver Support: Cancer does not affect just one person. The program provides vital support for caregivers, offering education, coping strategies, and practical assistance in managing the day-to-day responsibilities of caring for a loved one. Resources specifically designed for caregivers and family members are available.
Premera Cancer Support is inclusive, offering assistance for all cancer types and supporting members at every stage of their care journey.
Eligibility and Access
To access Premera Cancer Support, members must be 18 years or older, have a confirmed or suspected cancer diagnosis, and be covered by a qualifying Premera plan. Importantly, members do not need a referral to utilize this valuable service. The program is provided at no additional out-of-pocket cost to eligible Premera Blue Cross members. The integration of this service means that Premera proactively identifies and engages eligible members, providing nationwide coverage across all 50 states.
A Commitment to Member Well-being
Premera Blue Cross, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serves businesses and residents of Alaska and Washington State, excluding Clark County. The organization has a long-standing history of providing high-quality care and resources, taking everything it has learned over 80 years to help members get high-quality care. This expansion represents a key part of Premera’s continuous investment in cancer care organizations and specialized programs throughout the community.
While this program offers extensive support, it is designed to work collaboratively with a member’s existing healthcare providers and oncologists, rather than replacing them. Studies have consistently shown that patient navigation programs, like the expanded Premera Cancer Support, have a positive impact on both the quality of cancer treatment and overall patient outcomes. By easing the navigation of a complex healthcare system and addressing both clinical and non-clinical needs, Premera Blue Cross aims to empower its members to focus on their health and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the latest news from Premera Blue Cross regarding cancer care?
Premera Blue Cross has strengthened its cancer care support by expanding its case management program to include Premera Cancer Support, powered by Thyme Care, effective January 1, 2026.
What is Premera Cancer Support?
Premera Cancer Support is a new service, offered in partnership with Thyme Care, that helps eligible members navigate a cancer diagnosis through evidence-based, virtual cancer care navigation and support services.
Who is eligible for Premera Cancer Support?
Members who are 18 years or older, have a confirmed or suspected cancer diagnosis, and are covered by a qualifying Premera plan are eligible.
Is a referral needed to access Premera Cancer Support?
No, Premera members do not need a referral to access Premera Cancer Support.
What services does Premera Cancer Support provide?
The program offers 24/7 access to an oncology-trained team that provides clinical support (symptom questions, treatment side effects, mental health, palliative care, urgent care, second opinions), addresses non-clinical barriers (food, transportation, financial needs), and offers caregiver support (education, coping strategies).
What is the cost for Premera Cancer Support?
Premera Cancer Support services are provided at no additional out-of-pocket cost to eligible Premera Blue Cross members.
Does this program replace my current doctors?
No, Thyme Care does not replace your existing doctors and specialists; it works alongside your oncologist to help navigate care more effectively.
What is the geographic scope of Premera Cancer Support?
Premera Cancer Support includes proactive member identification and engagement with coverage in all 50 states.
Key Features of Premera’s Expanded Cancer Care Support Program
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Program Name | Premera Cancer Support (integrated into Personal Health Support) | N/A |
| Powered By | Thyme Care | N/A |
| Effective Date | January 1, 2026 | N/A |
| Availability of Care Team | 24/7 access to oncology-trained clinicians, nurses, social workers, navigators | N/A |
| Cost to Eligible Members | No additional out-of-pocket cost | N/A |
| Eligibility Criteria | 18+ years old, confirmed/suspected cancer diagnosis, qualifying Premera plan | N/A |
| Referral Requirement | No referral needed | N/A |
| Covered Cancer Types | All cancer types | N/A |
| Services Provided | Clinical support, non-clinical barrier assistance (food, transport, financial), caregiver support | N/A |
| Geographic Coverage | Nationwide (all 50 states) | Nationwide |