Susan G. Komen, the leading global breast cancer organization, has praised Representative Rick Scarbrough of Oak Ridge and Senator Richard Briggs of Knoxville for introducing legislation that would remove financial barriers for patients needing clinically appropriate genetic testing and the follow-up screenings recommended based on those results. Germline genetic testing examines inherited mutations present in every cell of the body from birth. In the United States, 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. Women with moderate-risk inherited mutations face a 20 to 49 percent lifetime risk of breast cancer, while those with high-risk mutations have a 50 percent or higher lifetime risk.
Health Technology Insights: Hyperfine Announces Regulatory Approval of the Swoop System in India
The proposed bills, SB 1626 introduced by Senator Briggs and HB 1775 introduced by Representative Scarbrough, would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for multi-gene panel testing for inherited mutations and cover evidence-based screenings. This ensures that individuals have access to critical information about their lifetime cancer risk and can pursue early detection and surveillance strategies without financial limitations.
Health Technology Insights: Rona Launches First Bi-valent PCSK9-LPA siRNA for Heart Risk
Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Susan G. Komen, stated that the legislation guarantees patients access to information about their lifetime cancer risk and necessary risk reduction and treatment strategies. She emphasized that the ability to understand one’s cancer risk should not depend on financial means and that the legislation empowers individuals and their families to make informed healthcare decisions.
Senator Briggs added that genetic testing allows physicians to provide more effective treatment, potentially preventing avoidable deaths. He noted that the legislation represents an important step in ensuring patients and families receive better care and improved treatment options. Representative Scarbrough highlighted his conversations with doctors and cancer survivors, stating that the legislation will enable physicians to act proactively, reduce overall healthcare costs, and ultimately save lives.
Identifying inherited cancer risks can inform recommendations for early detection, guide personalized treatment plans, and support risk-reducing interventions. Research indicates that approximately 83 percent of patients eligible for multigene panel testing experienced changes in medical management based on their results, including adjustments to follow-up care and chemotherapy strategies. This legislation is intended to ensure that more patients have access to these vital tools for managing their health proactively.
Health Technology Insights: Wealth Enhancement to Acquire Wealth Advocates with $476 Million AUM
To participate in our interviews, please write to our HealthTech Media Room at info@intentamplify.com
