Medicare Approves Genetic Testing for Cancers

internutz1

In March 2018 CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) approved DNA testing at $0 cost to beneficiaries for those with two instances of cancer in the immediate family. This is only available to Medicare beneficiaries over the age of 18. Testing is done by buccal swab either in your home, or at your doctor's office.

Identifying any possible gene mutations can help you and your doctor plan preventive measures as well as help guide treatment should cancer recur. This is a wonderful movement forward to help those with cancer in their past or present to make informed decisions.

If you'd like more details, please PM me.

Mavericksmom

Has anyone done testing other than for BRCA 1 & 2?

I was tested in 2004 after my first diagnosis in 2003. I was neg for the BRCA gene defect. I had a “full panel" done in 2010, also with a neg result. Now my doctors tell me that I should be tested again, that there are new genes discovered since I was tested 9 years ago.

I do have a family history, mom, two sisters, myself with a recurrence after 15 years, and a cousin, but only my cousin and I were premenopausal at the time of diagnosis.

I get the feeling this is more for theresearchers benefit than mine. I was refused a bilateral mastectomy in January and have no plans to ever have surgery again, so what good would it do to find out about a gene defect now?

My children and grandkids don't have to worry about getting the BRCA genes from me because I don't have them. I'm inclined to cancel the appointment with the genetic testing

internutz1

I did testing beyon BRCA. What was found was a mutation in my CHEK2 gene. What this tells my doctors is that a mutation there can often develop into colon cancer. Having some 30 other genes tested allowed me the knowledge to be vigilant, and allows my doctor to direct me in ways to minimize risk of developing another cancer. It can also help her determine best treatments should the worst happen.

Knowing ALL of your genetic predispositions toward cancer will help you AND your family way down the road - not just toward breast cancer but many other types of cancer as well. I woudl do the extended testing for them, if not for yourself.

Best of health to you!

Irishlove

I won my appeal of Invitae genetic testing billing. The surgeon's office told me that the most I would have to pay was $100. Last Friday I rec'd billing of $300! Wednesday my BS was checking on me after PMX and I told her how upset I was. She must have jumped on this right away, because today I was given a $0 balance. The biller said Medicare patients pay $0, but for some reason they billed me in error. Invitae clerk did not call me. I had to call them twice to reach someone. So a big win in this battle!