Vitality has partnered with Perci Health to introduce a Cancer Nurse Navigation service for eligible health and life insurance members diagnosed with cancer.
The partnership expands Vitality’s existing 12-week cancer support service into a personalised 12-month programme, giving members access to a dedicated Cancer Nurse Specialist to help them navigate treatment and the wider impact of cancer.
The service adds to the provider’s existing Oncology Care pathway and Cancer Support Programme, which covers cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and case management.
VitalityLife members claiming on Income Protection or Serious Illness Cover, as well as those making a Terminal Illness claim on Life Insurance Cover, will also have access to the service.
The Cancer Nurse Specialist will work alongside a member’s existing medical team, providing clinical, emotional and practical support throughout diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and life after cancer.
Support includes helping members understand their diagnosis and treatment options, prepare for appointments, manage side effects, access specialist services and navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.
Members will also be supported with returning to work and everyday activities following treatment.
Perci Health said its data shows that people affected by cancer identify an average of 24 unmet needs across areas including physical symptoms, emotional and psychological wellbeing, social relationships, practical issues and information.
Vitality said the new service is intended to complement the support already provided by its Oncology Member Care Team, which helps members navigate their cancer care.
VitalityHealth UK CEO Dr Arun Thiyagarajan says: “Cancer treatment has advanced significantly in recent years, which means that more people are living with and beyond cancer than ever before. This is fantastic news, but it also means many more people are left navigating complex decisions about their care, managing the side effects of treatment, and dealing with the longer-term physical, practical and psychological impact cancer can have on their lives.
“We already provide some of the most comprehensive support to members affected by cancer, but our partnership with Perci Health strengthens that support even further, providing eligible members with access to a dedicated Cancer Nurse Specialist who can help them better understand their treatment, prepare for appointments, manage side effects and navigate the wider impact cancer can have on daily life. By combining personalised care planning with access to specialist clinical, emotional and practical support, we’re ensuring members receive the right support at the right time, helping them feel more informed, confident and supported throughout their cancer journey.”
Perci Health co-founder and CEO Kelly McCabe says: “Vitality has shown a real commitment to providing comprehensive care for people affected by cancer, and I’m incredibly proud that Perci will now be part of that.
“Cancer treatments are advancing, but the impact of cancer can last for months or years beyond curative treatment. With hundreds of cancer types and treatment combinations, each person’s experience is deeply personal, from fatigue, hormonal and digestive changes to anxiety, loss of income and disruption at home.
“Our expert clinical team has designed a truly personalised, evidence-based service to help people manage the full impact of cancer. Delivered over 12 months, it recognises that people’s needs change over time and provides ongoing specialist cancer nurse care to help them adjust to life during and beyond treatment.”