MedExtra has signed an agreement with Empire Life, and will now provide health concierge services to the insurer’s group plans that include critical illness coverage.

MedExtra offers services that are meant to accelerate the diagnosis of illnesses and help plan members find the best treatment.

"Being told you have a serious illness is frightening. Having someone who can explain what's happening, help navigate the healthcare system, accelerate the diagnosis, and facilitate treatment can help employees during this difficult time" says Janet Jackson, Vice-President, Group Marketing, Empire Life. "This is what MedExtra does superbly well. They provide a made-in-Canada solution for the Canadian healthcare system that goes well beyond a second opinion service. We couldn't be more pleased to be working with such a great partner."

The agreement took effect on May 1, 2015. MedExtra already provides medical concierge services to individuals through Empire's Vital Link product, and the insurer intends to launch its group critical illness portfolio later this month.