What You Should Know:
– The American Cancer Society (ACS) and Color Health announced today a significant expansion of their existing program, creating a first-of-its-kind comprehensive cancer solution for employers and labor unions. This enhanced program goes beyond screening and prevention to support employees and members throughout all stages of the cancer journey.
– The expanded program builds upon the existing collaboration between ACS and Color Health, which has already provided accessible cancer prevention and screening solutions to over 150 million Americans. Through this partnership, a portion of Color Health’s proceeds supports the ACS mission.
Addressing the Full Spectrum of Cancer Care
Previously focused on convenient and accessible screening solutions, the program now offers a holistic approach that includes:
- Color Medical Clinical Teams: These dedicated teams manage abnormal screenings, confirmed diagnoses, and provide specialized care for high-risk individuals.
- Holistic Support for Employees: The program offers comprehensive support services for employees undergoing treatment, including mental health resources.
- Integrated Care for Survivors: Support continues beyond treatment with dedicated resources for survivors, including physical and mental health support, and assistance managing ongoing care costs.
Pilot Study Demonstrates Program Effectiveness
Color Health shared early results from a pilot study showing promising outcomes:
- Increased Screening Awareness: 84% of participants significantly improved their understanding of cancer screening recommendations.
- Boosted Screening Rates: Rates of guideline-based screening adherence doubled or tripled within just eight weeks.
- High Patient Satisfaction: Nearly 90% of participants reported excellent or very good experiences with Color’s clinical team.
- Strong Interest in Support Services: The vast majority (90%) expressed interest in emotional and social support following a cancer diagnosis.
Key Features of the Expanded Program
- Virtual Cancer Clinic: This innovative clinic offers a dedicated care team with practicing physicians, oncologists, genetic counselors, and high-risk coordinators.
- Integrated Diagnostics and Imaging: The program facilitates swift, high-quality care through an in-house network and access to at-home screening tests.
- Robust Patient Support: Color Cancer Connect provides peer support programs and mental health services. Care Advocates assist with appointment scheduling, financial considerations, and other logistical needs.
Supporting Every Step of the Cancer Journey
The comprehensive program addresses five crucial aspects of workforce cancer care:
- Education & Awareness: Tailored educational resources help employees understand cancer risks and screening recommendations.
- Evidence-Based Screening: Risk assessments guide employees on appropriate screening based on ACS guidelines.
- Diagnosis Management: Color’s experienced clinicians support employees through a potential diagnosis, ensuring efficient navigation and timely access to care.
- Cancer Treatment Support: All program participants have access to treatment support services through integrations with Centers of Excellence at no additional cost.
- Survivorship: Comprehensive care continues for employees in remission, addressing both physical and mental health needs, and assisting with managing ongoing care costs.
“Over the past year, we have heard from employers and funds across the U.S. who are asking for a single program and model that focuses equally on early detection as it does on cancer treatment support. We know that moving the needle on detection is the only thing that will cause a state change in cancer outcomes and costs,” said Othman Laraki, CEO of Color. “We’re recognizing the need for a comprehensive clinic approach, which really takes on clinical care and support while also lowering access barriers and thinking holistically about cancer — which is not just a medical issue, but something that is far more complex.”
