Cancer COE Program Design
Cancer COE programs direct employees diagnosed with cancer to designated cancer centers of excellence. COE centers are selected based on quality metrics — survival rates, complication rates, clinical trial access, and multidisciplinary care teams. Members who use COE centers pay little or no cost-sharing; members who use non-COE facilities pay standard cost-sharing.
NCI-Designated Cancer Centers
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) designates cancer centers based on their research excellence and clinical capabilities. NCI-designated cancer centers are the gold standard for cancer care — they have access to the latest clinical trials, multidisciplinary care teams, and cutting-edge treatments. Directing cancer patients to NCI-designated centers improves outcomes and often reduces total cost of care.
Travel Support
Pro Tip
Cancer COE programs must include travel support for employees who need to travel to access a COE center. Covering travel, lodging, and meals for the patient and a companion removes the financial barrier to accessing the best care. The cost of travel support is typically $2,000–$5,000 per patient — far less than the savings from better outcomes and lower treatment costs at a COE center.