Committee passes bill to require coverage for genetic testing for inherited cancer mutations

Representative Tully presented a bill (LC520756S) that would require insurance carriers and the state health plan to cover genetic testing for inherited mutations when it is ordered by a doctor and treated as a health-plan benefit. Tully described the measure as ‘‘the shortest and simplest bill’’ intended to make coverage consistent across carriers for an important cancer screening tool.

Committee members expressed support. Representative Crawford thanked the sponsor and said the measure ‘‘will help a lot of people’’ and her family. Representative Cannon asked about ethical considerations; the sponsor responded that tests would be based on a physician’s prescription and family history in clinical decision-making.

The bill was heard in subcommittee previously; committee members noted the prior public testimony and moved the bill forward without additional public witnesses at the full committee hearing. The committee voted to pass the bill by voice vote.

If enacted, the bill would require carriers and the state health plan to treat genetic testing for inherited mutations as a covered benefit consistent with other plan benefits when the test is medically indicated and ordered by a clinician.