Genomic testing

@KimF while awaiting a response, you might find this My Journey article helpful - https://myjourney.org.au/article/2181

It talks about the different genomic testing that is available.

My oncologist suggested endopredict . The results happily showed that chemo would be of little benefit and wasn’t recommended and the results also suggested hormone therapy for 5 years rather than 10. Although genomic testing is only useful in particular circumstances it can be really helpful and should be subsidised for all suitable candidates in my view

Thanks @Helen22. I agree with you about subsidizing it!

Hi @Jenny_BCNA. Thanks for the link!

Hi @KimF,
I hope surgery went well and you are healing now. I am not sure if you made the decision to do the genomic testing so I apologise for the late response.
I also am ER/PR+ HER2- and decided to go ahead with the Oncotype DX test based on it being able to predict chemo benefits and the 10year risk of recurrence specific to your genes. My oncologists didn’t expect my results as I was graded at a higher risk for recurrence hence I went ahead with chemo. It was a hard decision because coupled with the ridiculous fee for the test, I had to have chemo anyway. I am sure the test is well worth for anyone who can avoid chemo and it’s harsh side effects. 

I agree, @FTA ... it SHOULD be covered by Medicare - as in the long term, it will be cheaper for the Gov if they can prevent people from doing chemo if they don't really need it - or by giving them specifically targeted treatment that they know will suit their BC, rather than 'guessing' & just using stock standard chemo .... they have recently OK'd it for children with cancers.  Hopefully they will expand it for everyone.

All the best @kimF for your recovery & results ... 

Exactly right @arpie! The costs they would save with unnecessary chemo and resources such as Oncology nurses who can focus on patients with higher care would be a huge benefit. I feel for patients who have had to battle chemo yet not realising that they may not have needed it. It cost me exactly $5000, that is someone’s savings, mortgage repayment, living expenses!! The one thing I am grateful for is that they adjusted my dosage according to my biology from the genes that were tested.