Humana Taps Thyme Care for Value-Based Oncology Care

Humana has launched a value-based agreement with Thyme Care to provide cancer care support for its Medicare Advantage members, the companies announced Wednesday.

The agreement affects MA members in Michigan, New York, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Those who are eligible now have access to Thyme Care’s services, which include 24/7 virtual care navigation. Patients are connected to a care team that consists of oncology nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers and resource specialists. The team provides medication guidance, urgent care support, chronic condition management and palliative care support.

Nashville, Tennessee-based Thyme Care can also connect patients with community-based resources, such as financial assistance, transportation for appointments, food assistance and housing support. 

In addition, the company provides care coordination services to ensure that the member’s oncologist, primary care physician and other specialists have all the right information about the patient’s care.

The value-based arrangement will be tied to Thyme’s ability to decrease unnecessary acute hospital care, as well as its ability to provide support after hospital discharges, according to Dr. Bryan Loy, Humana medical director. Humana chose to work with Thyme Care because its “approach to support the member throughout the care journey aligns with Humana’s desire to help members get the best care experience,” Loy added.

“Thyme Care’s clinical leadership understands the complexities of oncology practice and the need to personalize care for our members,” he said in an email. “Their reputation and existing partnerships with practices give us the confidence to pursue improvements in a way that is in the best interests of our members.”

There’s a need for more cancer care support, particularly in older populations. Cancer risk increases with age, with about 60% of new cancers diagnosed in those over the age of 65. In addition, older adults with cancer are more likely to have co-occurring medical conditions that can affect their cancer treatment.

By working with Humana, Thyme Care has two main goals, according to Dr. Brad Diephuis, president and COO of the company.

“First, we’re focused on transforming the patient experience,” he said. “Cancer care involves more than just clinical treatment; it’s about having someone to call when symptoms worsen at midnight, getting help with transportation to appointments, or finding financial assistance for medications. Our 24/7 Care Team provides this continuous support that extends well beyond the clinic walls, addressing both medical needs and social determinants of health. 

“Second, we’re committed to measuring and demonstrating the impact of this approach,” he continued. “We expect to see meaningful improvements in patient experience and clinical outcomes (eg, less hospitalizations, better medication adherence) while simultaneously lowering the total cost of care. This value-based model aligns with Humana’s vision and represents the future of oncology care.”

Thyme Care isn’t the only company providing cancer care support. Others include OncoveryCare and Maia Oncology.

Photo: mikdam, Getty Images