What's Happening?
Thyme Care, a value-based cancer care navigation company, has expanded its cancer survivorship program, Next Chapter Care, to provide comprehensive, longitudinal support for cancer survivors. This expansion aims to address the ongoing medical and mental
health needs of survivors who face long-term side effects and behavioral health challenges post-treatment. The program offers coordinated oncology support beyond active treatment for over 15,000 Thyme Care members who have completed cancer treatment. It includes dedicated nurse practitioner-led visits focusing on medication adherence, emotional and mental health support, cancer surveillance, symptom management, and lifestyle goals. The program also provides wellness education, lifestyle modification support, and connection to peer support groups, extending follow-up care from a one-time visit to a continuous relationship with a care team.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Thyme Care's survivorship program is significant as it addresses the gap in post-treatment care for cancer survivors, a population that is expected to grow to over 22 million in the U.S. by 2035. By providing structured support, the program aims to improve the quality of life for survivors, helping them manage long-term side effects and mental health challenges. This initiative also reflects a broader shift towards value-based care in oncology, focusing on reducing healthcare costs while improving patient outcomes. The program's integration with national and regional health plans and its collaboration with over 1,400 oncologists highlight its potential to set a new standard in cancer survivorship care.
What's Next?
Thyme Care plans to continue scaling its survivorship program, leveraging its tech-enabled care team and integrated oncology infrastructure to reach more cancer survivors across the U.S. The company aims to enhance its educational resources and support tools, enabling survivors to take an active role in managing their long-term health. As the program evolves, it may influence other healthcare providers to adopt similar models, potentially leading to widespread improvements in survivorship care. Stakeholders, including health plans and employers, may also play a role in supporting and expanding such initiatives to further reduce the cost of cancer care and improve patient outcomes.
