"Cancer treatment has advanced significantly in recent years, which means that more people are living with and beyond cancer than ever before."
- Dr Arun Thiyagarajan - VitalityHealth UK
Vitality is updating its existing cancer support programme through its partnership with Perci Health, expanding its 12-week service into a personalised 12-month programme.
Vitality members diagnosed with cancer will have access to support from a cancer nurse specialist, helping them navigate the wider impact of cancer and access the right support at the right time.
For VitalityHealth members, it adds to Vitality's oncology care pathway and cancer support programme, which aims to bring together support across every stage of the cancer journey.
For eligible VitalityLife members, Perci Health’s cancer nurse support will be available for members claiming on income protection and serious illness cover, as well as those making a terminal illness claim on their life insurance cover.
The service is designed to complement care provided by a member's medical team, helping people to navigate their diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and life beyond cancer.
Perci Health's data shows that, on average, people affected by cancer identify 24 unmet needs across physical symptoms, emotional and psychological wellbeing, social relationships, practical issues and information needs, highlighting the importance of support that extends beyond treatment alone.
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"Cancer treatment has advanced significantly in recent years, which means that more people are living with and beyond cancer than ever before," Dr Arun Thiyagarajan, CEO at VitalityHealth UK, said.
"This is fantastic news, but it also means many more people are left navigating complex decisions about their care, managing the side effects of treatment, and dealing with the longer-term physical, practical and psychological impact cancer can have on their lives.
"We already provide some of the most comprehensive support to members affected by cancer, but our partnership with Perci Health strengthens that support even further, providing eligible members with access to a dedicated cancer nurse specialist who can help them better understand their treatment, prepare for appointments, manage side effects and navigate the wider impact cancer can have on daily life.
"By combining personalised care planning with access to specialist clinical, emotional and practical support, we're ensuring members receive the right support at the right time, helping them feel more informed, confident and supported throughout their cancer journey."
Kelly McCabe, co-founder and CEO of Perci Health, added: "Vitality has shown a real commitment to providing comprehensive care for people affected by cancer, and I’m incredibly proud that Perci will now be part of that.
"Cancer treatments are advancing, but the impact of cancer can last for months or years beyond curative treatment. With hundreds of cancer types and treatment combinations, each person’s experience is deeply personal, from fatigue, hormonal and digestive changes to anxiety, loss of income and disruption at home."
