Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming - for both patients and their loved ones. At Premera, we understand everyone's experience is unique and provide support every step of the way.
Care offered via Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Northwest Medical Specialties, and more.
Your partners in care
During this challenging time, we're right by your side—offering tailored support programs, expertise, resources, and a team that’s ready to help at all stages of your care.
Personalized, one-on-one support is available to all Premera members through a Personal Health Support team of care managers including registered nurses, mental health professionals, dietitians, and other healthcare providers at no additional cost. This team can answer health questions, help you navigate the healthcare system, stay on track with medications, and more.
Most Premera plans offer access to the Wellframe app at no cost. This app provides an easy, secure two-way chat with your Personal Health Support care team and delivers content and education tailored to your needs. The Wellframe app also offers a 45-daysupport program for all cancer diagnoses, plus more specific programs for members living with breast, lung, and prostate cancer.
Call Personal Health Support at 888-742-1479 to confirm if your plan offers Wellframe.
If you know your plan offers Wellframe, download the Wellframe app to get started.
- From your smartphone or mobile device, tap the QR code or app store button. If you’re on a laptop, scan the QR code from your smartphone or mobile device.
- Open the app. Your access code should autofill. Here it is if you need it: supportbluepbc (If using an Apple device, click “Allow Paste” when prompted.)
- Follow the instructions to complete the sign-up process. You will need your Premera member ID card handy to enter your member ID.
- If you need assistance, please call Premera Personal Health Support at 888-742-1479, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
To further support our members navigating cancer, some Premera plans have access to a new cancer support program powered by Thyme Care. Members ages 18 and older and their caregivers have 24/7 access to a dedicated team of oncology-trained specialists who can offer clinical advice, help you understand test results, answer questions and connect you to the resources and services you need at any stage of your cancer journey. This dedicated team of specialists collaborates with your medical team and caregivers to make sure everyone’s up to date on your care.
This benefit, available on some employer-sponsored health plans, offers guided access to some of the highest quality specialists and facilities across the country at low- or no-cost to you for cancer-related specialties:
- Centers for cellular immunotherapy: Focus on treatments that use the immune system to fight diseases like cancer, including FDA-approved CAR-T cell therapies.
- Centers for cancer care: Wide range of cancer services with a demonstrated focus on delivering quality and value through patient-centered, coordinated care.
Call us or sign in to your Premera account to check your benefits and see if this benefit is available through your plan.
Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA)
When you receive care at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Premera has on-site patient liaisons that help manage your health plan. They can:
- Collaborate with your caregivers
- Help expedite appointments and pre-approvals for your treatment
- Help you get acquainted with the center
- Connect you with resources for financial help, spiritual health, or well-being
- Answer questions about your coverage
Northwest Medical Specialties
Northwest Medical Specialties offers oncology and hematology services in the South Puget Sound area. Premera members get a direct line to care coordinators who can:
- Help schedule procedures
- Respond to after-hours concerns
- Answer health plan questions
- Assist with transportation to appointments
Your care and prior authorization
It's our goal to help you receive the care you need. Some procedures require prior authorization. Your in-network healthcare provider will request this on your behalf when needed.
Services that require prior authorization can include:
- Advanced imaging (MRI, CAT, PET scans)
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Oral chemotherapy drugs
- Drugs to treat side effects
- Radiation therapy treatments
Second opinions
Seeing a different doctor to confirm a diagnosis or treatment plan is common and encouraged. If you want a second opinion for any reason, your plan usually covers it at the same cost as any office visit.
Clinical trials
Clinical trials or studies test new medical drugs, devices, or procedures. If you and your doctor decide this is right for you, your health plan covers the routine medical costs of a qualified clinical trial. Depending on the specifics of the trial, this might include some investigative treatments. Make sure your provider checks with us to see what parts of the clinical trial are covered in your medical benefit plan.
Cancer screenings
Get colonoscopy and mammogram details-including at-home colon cancer screening kits.
Your health, your choice
Medically reviewed guides help you make informed decisions.
Benefits under your health plan may differ. Sign in to your account to check your benefits to see what your specific health plan covers.
Your health plan covers preventive care services as required by state and federal law. For more information, please review the "A" and "B" rated services on the United States Preventive Services Task Force, immunizations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and preventive care and screening recommended by the Health Resources and Services Administration. See the list on healthcare.gov.
Wellframe is an independent company that provides digital support services on behalf of Premera Blue Cross.