A bill that will require health benefit plans to cover biomarker and pharmacogenetic testing for patients passed the Kentucky House of Representatives on Wednesday.
It now heads to the Senate.
Rep. Kim Moser (R-Taylor Mill) sponsored House Bill 180, which would cover biomarker testing for patients who have been diagnosed with cancer as well as other diseases.
Biomarker and pharmacogenetic testing allow healthcare providers to screen patients for genes, proteins, and other substances that give them information about an individual’s condition and how the patient will react to certain medications based on their genetic makeup.
Currently in healthcare, insurance is failing to keep up with the demand for this cutting-edge testing. Obtaining genetic information allows for targeted treatment specific to the diagnosis, eliminating the trial and error and harmful side effects from unsuitable treatment protocols.
“The passage of HB 180 out of the house brings us one step closer to creating a healthier Kentucky,” Moser said. “Early, precision testing results in improved quality of life, better health outcomes and reduces the costs of overall treatment.”