Blue KC expands cancer care support across most market segments
Starting January 1, 2026, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) is enhancing its cancer care offerings for most market segments* — including fully insured, cost plus, ASO, individual, small group, and large group customers — through a new partnership with OncoHealth.
Comprehensive support with Iris by OncoHealth®
Blue KC members diagnosed with cancer, as well as their caregivers, will have access to Iris, OncoHealth’s virtual support platform. Iris complements physician-led treatment and offers:
- 24/7 access to licensed oncology nurses via chat, telephone, and video
- Emotional health support from oncology-specialized therapists
- Nutrition guidance from registered dietitians
- Educational content tailored to cancer types and treatments
Whether newly diagnosed, in treatment, or a survivor, members can use Iris to navigate their cancer journeys with expert support at no additional cost**.
In the coming months, Blue KC will share more details about the member journey with Iris, including how members will be contacted, how they can access the platform directly, and what the experience looks like from diagnosis through survivorship.
Smarter oncology utilization management
Blue KC is also implementing OncoHealth’s utilization management (UM) approach to help ensure cancer treatments are appropriate, cost-effective, and focused on patient safety and better health outcomes. This model uses:
- Deep oncology expertise
- Evidence-based analytics
- Collaborative provider engagement
Together, these tools help expedite treatment decisions and improve outcomes.
To support this initiative, Blue KC is actively working with our provider partners to inform them of our collaboration with OncoHealth for both oncology UM and Iris virtual support services. This shared understanding helps align efforts across the care continuum, ensuring we deliver the best possible patient care and outcomes.
What you need to know
This new offering strengthens Blue KC’s value across most segments, giving you a powerful solution to help control costs while supporting members facing cancer with both clinical excellence and compassionate care.
Please contact your Blue KC sales representative for additional details and support.
*Excludes Short-Term Security and Medicare Supplement plans, FEP, and JAA. Please contact your sales representative to learn more about the OncoHealth solution, including costs.
** For costs, further details of the coverage (including exclusions), any reductions or limitations, and the terms under which the policy may be continued in force, please contact your Blue KC representative.
