What Is the Procedure and Cost for BRCA Gene Test?
Genetic counseling is the first step in the BRCA gene testing process. Your medical and family history will be examined as part of the genetic counseling process to help you decide whether genetic testing is the best option for you.
You will be scheduled for a blood or saliva test if your doctor or therapist advises the BRCA gene test. Saliva testing is a less invasive alternative to blood testing, which is the most popular BRCA testing technique.
You can typically anticipate receiving test results within 2 to 4 weeks of the test’s completion.
Your particular health insurance plan ultimately determines whether or not the BRCA gene test is covered.
A 2011 case study claims most private insurance providers pay for BRCA gene testing for people who are eligible. Although eligibility requirements differ from plan to plan, they typically include people who are deemed to be at high risk for developing cancer.
For people covered by government insurance programs like Medicare and Medicaid, BRCA coverage does not appear to be as frequent. Depending on copayments, coinsurance, lab fees, and other costs, BRCA testing without insurance can cost anywhere from $300 to $5,000 or more.