Genetic testing

The place that sends out your blood/tumor for the testing should be able to give some guidance about payment. I received Oncotype testing on my tumor. Medicare paid

Such interesting sharing all of you. I am also soon to be 65. On this cancer train since June of 2021. As to my blood, the Red Cross had my blood for over 30 years of testing's. Now COH and the genetic lab who processes many of our results has the info at a deeper level. After diagnosis, it would seem we are a better bet as insurance will pay for testing and less treatments. Of course, if testing can be done without insurance, then do it!!! We advocate for ourselves.
Zebra you are so right about the camps of people. For some, if it is not spoken about, it does not exist. If you get a cancer related to BRCA2 findings, just say it was not genetic related. Great. Dr. Google wins a round with my sister. My other siblings with the mutation have told their drs. Proactive. If anyone of us can keep a sibling from getting cancer, that is a test with good results.

Hello,
My concerns for coverage was the same as yours. I just recently had genetic counseling through Mayo after 2nd occurrence (15 years apart) invasive ductal breast cancer. The genetic counseling was covered under Medicare and Allstate Health Solutions supplemental insurance. I hope this helps you.

Thank you for response and related experience. Can you tell me if there is ongoing testing and if so, is that also covered by insurance? I don’t mean to make this all about cost but do not want to start down the path of endless tests/appointments that could mount up. And since my doctor is a two-hour drive each way, I have a lot to consider. No daughters; no grandchildren; one sister age 74 with no history. At age 78 I’m on the fence if it would make sense in my situation.

Ah. Definitely understand your questions. The only reason I completed the initial testing was for my granddaughter (age 2). No daughters. Only 1 granddaughter. The initial testing confirmed there is no genetic variant. I won't do any additional testing.

Also, the genetic counseling was all online. After discussions with Mayo Clinic genetics, the Invitae company sent me the saliva test and I submitted the sample via Fed Ex. It was simple, but would not have bothered if it weren't for my precious granddaughter. Hope this is helpful information for you 😊

Thank you! Sounds most reasonable to me! Wishing you continued good health and lots of fun with that precious granddaughter!

Invitae is used by COH in California and my sisters place in Western NY. They are good at what they do. If no family needs the info, and treatment would not change, maybe not doing it is right. I do not have kids but siblings and nieces and nephews.