The cost of cancer care in the U.S. has been growing fast and now accounts for more than 10% of all Medicare spending.1
This is expected to increase further: By 2030, total cancer care and medication spending is projected to reach $246 billion.2
As the need to lower these costs while continuing to support cancer patients becomes increasingly urgent, Humana has been prioritizing comprehensive cancer care through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. Here’s a closer look at the most recent initiatives.
Strategic partnerships
Humana has been entering partnerships that aim to provide cancer patients with better care and improved outcomes.
A new partnership between Humana’s CenterWell™ and Thyme Care, a leader in cancer care navigation, provides eligible members with 24/7 access to a virtual team of oncology-trained clinicians, helping avoid unnecessary hospital visits while helping patients manage their cancer diagnosis. The partnership will also improve collaboration between primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, ensuring a personalized level of support while lowering the total cost of care.
Humana also has a new partnership with Atlas Oncology that provides eligible members with access to coordinated oncology care. Through Atlas Oncology, cancer patients will benefit from proactive screenings, counseling services, support from interdisciplinary care teams, along with other services and resources.
Streamlined prior authorization
An expanded partnership between Humana and Evolent Health aims to streamline prior authorization processes by including radiation and surgical oncology services, with requests submitted in minutes and approvals delivered in seconds.
The collaboration will expedite the approval of prior authorization requests, improve access to care for cancer patients and ensure timely access to treatments.
Expanded access to cancer treatments
Two drugs have been added to the oncology therapies available from CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy®, reinforcing Humana’s commitment to supporting cancer patients by ensuring easy access to specialty medications. The drug Tagrisso® helps patients with a form of lung cancer manage their disease while the drug Lenvima® helps patients with certain types of thyroid, liver and kidney cancers. These specialty medications are delivered to each patient’s front door.
Patients who receive either drug from CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy also benefit from access to the Oncology Center of Excellence, whose patient advocates and specialty pharmacists provide treatment guidance. This includes help managing symptoms, assistance regarding how to take medications and answers to any questions patients may have about their therapy.
Sources:
- "CenterWell partners with Thyme Care for comprehensive cancer care support,” Humana press release, Dec. 15, 2025, accessed Jan. 9, 2026.
- "Cancer Care Costs in the United States Are Projected to Exceed $245 Billion by 2030,” American Association for Cancer Research, June 10, 2020, accessed Jan. 9, 2026.
Humana is a Medicare Advantage [HMO, PPO, and PFFS] organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal.
Other providers may be available in the Humana network.
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