Genetic Cancer Screening Information

Every year in the United States there are an estimated 1,735,350 new cancer cases diagnosed, plus 609,640 cancer deaths (cancer.org). With CGX Screenings we hope to reduce these numbers! Talk to our pharmacists today for additional information. 

CGX is a Genomic Cancer Screening Analysis and Test done in a certified laboratory per a doctor's orders that determines a person's specific genetic predisposition for developing cancer. 

Because your unique set of genes tells an important story about your risk of perhaps developing cancer, it is helpful for personal preventative measures as well as informing family members of any genetic markers you may or may not have for their future reference. 

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US, only eclipsed by heart disease. We all most likely have either a family member or know of a friend who has been diagnosed with cancer. Catching it early through a screening can often mean the difference between living a full and complete life or succumbing to the disease itself.

Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) understands the importance and necessity of preventative care and saving lives. Therefore, they have made CGX screenings a component of their list of benefits they offer to all their members. 

Have you decided a genetic test is for you? If so, a Genetic Cancer Specialist will be glad to facilitate your application through the following steps:

1. Qualify your insurance participation. Currently, qualifying insurances include: Medicare Part A & B; TriCare for Life (military veterans) with Medicare Part A & B; PPO Medicare Advantage Plan (No HMO or BCBS); Medicaid (State specific)
2. Verify that you have been diagnosed with cancer, have clinical indications and document an inherited history of at least 2 types of cancer in your family tree Personal history exceptions vary for religious heritage, unknown family history and some age limitations.
3. Complete the required application, including a cancer history, consent, and requisition form. You will be sent an email of your signed application. 
4. The CGX application will be sent to your testing physician for inclusion in your ongoing treatment, medical necessity and prescription ordering. 
5. Once your testing physician has ordered the CGX test, a swab test kit will be sent to your home or to your physician to collect a DNA oral cheek sample.
6. Upon receipt of the test kit, your application and DNA sample is forwarded to a CLIA-certified genetic laboratory for analysis at which time insurance is re-verified prior to testing. If a patient portion is discovered, you will have the option to discard the sample or pay any discovered amount. 
7. When the result is determined, results are provided to you and your treating physician for care management specifying options including forward-looking prevention and monitoring of any positive mutation. 

Q: Does the CGX screening tell me if I have cancer?

A: NO. It will only tell you if you do or do not have a genetic predisposition for getting cancer. You and your doctor will determine the best form of treatment if you have a positive test for a genetic predisposition of cancer. 

Q: If I test positive for a genetic propensity for cancer, does that preclude me from getting insurance?

A: NO. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008 prohibits discrimination from insurance companies and employers to anyone who has genetic testing completed. 

Q: Does the CGX test cost me anything?

A: NO. The test is a preventative one-time benefit fully reimbursed by Medicare, Tricare, and many other healthcare insurances. Your CGX Screening Specialist will have the details for your specific state. 

Q: Does the government get my DNA results?

A: NO. You are protected HIPAA (Health Information Portability Authorization Act) and the information is only between you and your doctor. 

Q: Can I tell my family and friends that this screening test is available?

A: YES. Based on their insurance and cancer history in their family, they too may qualify for this benefit.