Last updated: 2026-07-10 · Reviewed by Cancer Answers OC Care Coordination Team
Cigna plan types accepted
Cigna offers several plan types in California. Coverage rules and referral requirements vary by plan.
- Open Access Plus
- LocalPlus
- PPO
- HMO
- Medicare Advantage
What's typically covered
Most cancer services are covered when delivered by in-network providers. Coverage details vary by plan — verify your specific benefits before scheduling.
- Oncology consultations
- Chemotherapy and infusion
- Radiation therapy
- Surgical oncology
- Survivorship and supportive care
Referrals & prior authorization
HMO members typically need a referral from their primary care physician before seeing an oncologist. PPO members can usually self-refer. Cigna commonly requires prior authorization for advanced imaging (PET, MRI), infusion therapy, and certain targeted or specialty medications. Our care coordinators help confirm what's needed before your first visit.
Infusion & chemotherapy coverage
Cigna plans generally cover medically necessary infusion therapy and chemotherapy administered at an in-network infusion center, hospital outpatient department, or physician's office. Oral chemotherapy is usually covered under the pharmacy benefit.
USC / Keck Medicine affiliation
Our featured Orange County provider — Keck Medicine of USC — Newport Beach — is part of the Keck Medicine of USC network, an NCI-designated academic cancer care system. Most major Cigna plans include in-network access. Care coordination, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and clinical trial screening are standard.
How to verify your specific plan
Cigna usually requires prior authorization for advanced imaging and inpatient procedures. Confirm your specific plan's referral requirements before scheduling.
Frequently asked questions
Does Cigna cover chemotherapy in Orange County?
Yes. Cigna typically covers medically necessary chemotherapy delivered by in-network oncology providers in Orange County, including infusion therapy and most oral chemotherapy under the pharmacy benefit.
Does Cigna cover radiation therapy for cancer?
Yes. Cigna plans generally cover medically necessary radiation therapy — including external beam radiation, IMRT, and SBRT — when prescribed by an in-network oncologist. Prior authorization is common.
Do I need a referral to see an oncologist with Cigna?
If you have an HMO plan, yes — your primary care physician needs to issue a referral. PPO and EPO members can usually self-refer to an in-network oncologist. Our care coordinators help with referral logistics.
Does Cigna cover second opinions for cancer?
Yes. Cigna plans typically cover second opinions for a cancer diagnosis when the consulting oncologist is in-network. Second opinions are considered a standard part of cancer care.
Does Cigna cover clinical trial participation?
Cigna typically covers routine patient care costs associated with approved clinical trials, as required under federal and California law. Trial-specific costs are usually covered by the trial sponsor.
Want to know if your specific Cigna plan is accepted? Our team verifies benefits at no cost.
Other carriers in Orange County