The cutting-edge genomic sequencing test could allow doctors to personalize treatment for certain types of cancer.
The cost of a genetic test that allows doctors to treat certain late-stage cancers based on a patient's individual DNA will be covered by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey as part of a clinical study.
The patients who might eligible for the trial must have previously untreated cases of these three cancers: inoperable pancreatic cancer, metastatic breast cancer, or advanced lung cancer.
The test is not yet covered by most insurance companies because it is still in the investigational stage.
"For years we've treated cancer without being informed by a patient's specific DNA, but we all have unique genetic profiles which react differently to different treatment approaches," said Mary Ann Christopher, chief of Clinical Operations and Transformation at Horizon. "The test being studied will allow oncologists to understand an individual person's genetic profile and the unique biology of the tumor," she said.
Test results could reveal that a patient's tumor might be resistant to a certain drug, allowing doctors to avoid wasted treatment time and fine-tune a personalized treatment plan to choose something more effective.
The test, called "GPS Cancer," will be available to patients enrolled in the study at leading health centers serving Horizon members or through certain oncologists: Hackensack University Medical Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute, Regional Cancer Care Associates and University of Pennsylvania Hospital.
The test is the brainchild of Patrick Soon-Shiong, dubbed the "world's richest doctor" for his break-through gene sequencing products aimed at fine-tuning cancer treatment. (He has also pledged to give $1 billion over the next two years to help institutions cover the cost of the new test.)
Through its participation in this latest round of research, Horizon becomes the second major insurer to cover the costly test, following the decision by Pennsylvania-based Independence Blue Cross to cover it.
Kathleen O'Brien may be reached at kobrien@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @OBrienLedger. Find NJ.com on Facebook.