CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter is leading a measure to prohibit cost-sharing on the coverage of clinical genetic testing.
“Early detection saves lives,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “When we remove financial barriers to genetic testing, we empower patients to take proactive steps before a diagnosis becomes a crisis.”
Building on her support for equitable health care, Hunter is leading House Bill 3605. The measure would prohibit cost-sharing on the coverage of clinical genetic testing and any subsequent tests after a positive result for an inherent gene mutation is received.
Under current law, insurance plans are required to cover clinical genetic testing for an inherited gene mutation for individuals with a personal or family history of cancers as recommended by a health care professional. The current coverage limits the total amount that an individual is required to pay for a clinical test to $50.
“When a health care professional recommends genetic testing, cost should never be the reason a patient says no,” said Hunter. “This measure ensures that medical decisions stay between patients and their doctors — not their bank accounts.”
House Bill 3605 passed the Senate Insurance Committee Tuesday.
