Choices to keep you in control

It’s important for employers to have a plan to keep them in control of costs. They also need to offer their employees a plan that keeps them in control of their care. So it makes sense to talk to Cigna, as our plans give exactly that.

Patient choice

Patient choice is central to our care management approach.  Our members have the choice of specialists and facilities for their treatment.  They can pick from any Private or NHS hospital in the UK, or even to receive nursing care in the comfort of their own home if it’s appropriate. 

We believe that claims should be treated individually.  No two people are the same, and neither are their claims. Our intelligent care pathways are designed to achieve the best patient outcome every time. Part of that comes from providing care from the right specialist in the right facilities.

We don’t believe that patient choice should mean increased costs. In fact, we find it often means exactly the opposite.

Our nurses explain the options to members as part of our care management approach.  GPs often recommend diagnostic tests and treatments to cover all bases.  But they’re not always necessary.  Our nurses’ expertise allows them to challenge excessive referrals, and direct patient care more appropriately. The patient saves time by avoiding unnecessary appointments.  Employers save on both the claims fund and on time away from work.  

It doesn’t end there. Nurse Managers support patients throughout treatment, and challenge costs with specialists where necessary. So patients can make choices about their treatment, knowing that Cigna will take care of everything else.

Care Coordination

With innovative techniques such as care coordination, we make sure patients benefit from the best care possible - while controlling costs. By carefully managing claims with our Care Coordination Programme (CCP), we reduce costs without compromising patient care.

Our CCP allows us to work hand in hand with the NHS. Members choose whether to use their benefit to be treated privately, or to receive a cash benefit while being treated under the NHS. 

Adding value

The choices available give the patient a sense of control over their healthcare. And the support offered to the patient and their family continues throughout the treatment. It doesn’t matter where treatment is delivered. Through the savings made by managing care via the NHS, we are also able to provide less conventional support such as:

• childcare
• travel expenses
• home help services.

Effective cost control

Employers make significant savings when their employees choose to receive treatment in the NHS. The cost of paying the NHS cash benefit and supporting services will be much less than that of delivering care privately. 

Giving members control over their choices means that the Plan is seen as a valuable staff benefit. Cigna’s approach to care management allows employers to deliver a benefit of high perceived value at a manageable cost. 

So it’s win-win. Employers reap the benefit of a valuable staff incentive with effective cost control. And employees get the best care with the comfort of being in control of their treatment. Cigna offers plans that save money by promoting choice, not restricting it.