MSK Direct Program

When you are faced with cancer, reliable information and comprehensive care coordination are crucial. The UFT Welfare Fund’s partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) offers members and their eligible dependents guided access to expert cancer care specialists and services. 

How can MSK Direct help? 

Choosing where to get treated first for cancer is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. At MSK, cancer is their only focus—and patients live longer, healthier lives because of it. 

Fast access to top doctors 

Call your dedicated MSK Direct phone line (see below) and you can be seen within two business days by one of MSK’s top doctors specializing in your type of cancer.* 

Personalized support 

MSK Direct Care Advisors quickly connect you with the right doctors and take care of everything—from gathering your medical records to preparing you for your first appointment. 

Expert cancer care, close to home 

You can get the same world-class care MSK is known for at any of their locations—throughout New York City, Long Island, Westchester, or New Jersey. If you are not able to come to MSK, they will help you find the best hospital close to home that is covered by your insurance. 

Second opinions from MSK experts

You can get a second opinion in person or have MSK send a written report directly to you and your doctor if you don’t live close by. 

Screening & prevention guidance 

Get personalized screening recommendations and expert tips on reducing your cancer risk. Medical care provided by MSK will be subject to the standard out-of-pocket costs (such as copays, deductibles, and coinsurance) determined by your health plan.  You can also access the MSK Direct Cancer Screening Tool, a short, no-cost assessment to receive immediate and personal recommendations from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. 

* If a specific MSK doctor or location is requested, scheduling may take longer based on availability.

MSK Direct FAQ
 

What is MSK Direct?

MSK Direct is a program that offers guided access to expert cancer care from a team of dedicated cancer specialists at MSK. The team includes experienced nurses, social workers and MSK Care Advisors who will be there to guide you through a range of services across the cancer spectrum — from prevention and screenings to treatment and survivorship.

Why Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK)?

When you’re faced with cancer, it’s crucial that you receive reliable information and comprehensive care coordination. The experts at MSK are there to help ensure that you and those you love understand the cancer treatment process and provide practical support during your treatment. MSK is the world’s oldest and largest private cancer center, devoting more than 135 years to patient care and research. It is consistently ranked among the top hospitals for adult and pediatric cancer care in the United States. MSK doctors are highly specialized in using the most advanced approaches for diagnosing and treating common and rare cancers in both adults and children. MSK doctors have one focus: providing compassionate cancer care to help each patient have the best possible outcome. As a world-leading cancer center, MSK uses the most advanced surgical, medical and radiological treatments available. MSK doctors have pioneered many advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment. 

Where is Memorial Sloan Kettering located?

In addition to the main hospital in Manhattan, MSK has outpatient facilities located in New York (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island and Westchester) and New Jersey.

Who is eligible to use MSK Direct?

All UFT members, retirees and their family members have access to MSK Direct at no additional cost beyond standard copays and deductibles (subject to health insurance coverage for care at MSK).

When should I contact MSK Direct?

You should contact MSK Direct if you: 

• Are diagnosed with cancer and would like to explore options for treatment at MSK
• Receive results from a medical test or exam that indicate a suspicion of cancer and would like to explore options for treatment at MSK
• Would like a second opinion from MSK on a cancer diagnosis or care plan received from another facility
• Are in cancer treatment elsewhere and would like to consult with an MSK specialist about possible options

Do I have to pay extra to use MSK Direct?

No. All UFT members, retirees and their family members have access to MSK Direct at no additional cost, but care provided by MSK will be subject to the standard copay and deductibles of each individual’s insurance plan.

MSK is an in-network provider for all non-Medicare city health plans except Metroplus Gold. For Medicare eligible members or retirees, MSK is an in-network provider for original Medicare with the GHI/BC SeniorCare Medicare Supplement. Out-of-pocket costs for treatment received at MSK will vary depending on your plan.

Can I access MSK Direct even if I don't have a confirmed cancer diagnosis?

Yes. MSK Direct can help before a confirmed diagnosis of cancer is received. You may contact MSK Direct when you receive results from a blood test, imaging exam or pathology report that indicate you may have cancer. The staff at MSK Direct can arrange an appointment with an MSK physician to further evaluate your situation.

Can I get a second opinion at MSK?

Yes. If you have already received a diagnosis or treatment recommendation somewhere else, you may contact MSK Direct to schedule an appointment for a second opinion with an MSK physician.

Do I have to go to MSK for cancer care?

No. The services provided by MSK Direct are available to you as an option should you or a family member need to seek cancer care. The decision on where to go for care is always your decision to make.

Geof Sorkin, the executive director of the UFT Welfare Fund, discusses how the MSK Direct program provides personal service and better access to cancer care for union members.