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Tonia's avatar
Tonia
Member
14 years ago

Ms

Hi all,

I am recovering from a mastectomy and awaiting pathology results.  I am keen to learn more from anyone who has had oncotype DX testing?

I intend to write to my private health insurance company and suggest they paritally cover costs associated with the oncotype DX test.  Keen to hear from others who have taken a similar approach and/or had the test covered. 

I am a lab scientist so have a particular interest in the molecular side of breast cancer ie. how tests work, why they cost so much, and what new tests/meds should be considered.? 

I would also love to know the uptake and patent issues to understand why the test is only done in the USA. LOL...determined Mum.

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  • Kathy_BCNA's avatar
    Kathy_BCNA
    Member
    14 years ago

    Hi Tonia

    I can tell you that Medicare doesn't provide a rebate for the Oncotype DX test and is unlikely to anytime in the near future. Medicare can only provide rebates for tests undertaken in Australia. Currently, all Oncotype DX testing is done in the US.

    Private health insurance funds also don't currently cover Oncotype DX  in their standard policies, but they all have discretionary funds which they can use to provide rebates to members at their discretion. It is certainly worth approaching your fund to ask if they would provide your with a reimbursement. I'd love to hear how you get on if you decide to do this.

    There is more info on Oncotype DX on the breast cancer pathology page of our website.

    All the best

    Kathy

  • Tonia's avatar
    Tonia
    Member
    14 years ago

    Hi Sam,

    Thanks for your kind words.  I did have a sentinel node biopsy and will learn the results in 4 days.  I already have an oncology appointment so I am not feeling particularly optomistic. 

    I will contact Medicare and see if I can track down any further information about coverage of the oncotype DX test.

     

    All the best

    Tonia