HIQA on Gene Expression Profiling Tests for Breast Cancer

By Staff Writer

February 21, 2023

Introduction:

There is an ongoing and unrelenting effort to find better treatments for breast cancer, which is a major health concern worldwide. One promising development in this respect is the use of gene expression profiling (GEP) tests. These tests, performed on tumour samples from early-stage breast cancer patients, can help determine the potential benefits of chemotherapy post-surgery.

Gene Expression Profiling Tests in Breast Cancer:

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) recently published a rapid health technology assessment (HTA) on GEP tests for breast cancer. This was at the request of the Health Service Executive’s (HSE) National Cancer Control Programme. These tests are particularly useful for patients with the most common form of breast cancer in Ireland. The tests aim to estimate the likelihood of the disease returning and the potential effectiveness of chemotherapy in preventing recurrence.

The Oncotype DX® Test:

Currently, the HSE covers the cost of one GEP test, known as Oncotype DX®. When it comes to patients whose cancer has migrated to their lymph nodes, this test has demonstrated the most compelling proof of its usefulness. On the other hand, the data that supports its use for patients whose cancer has not progressed to their lymph nodes is very restricted.

The Future of GEP Tests:

Despite the promising results of Oncotype DX®, the costs of other GEP tests are not covered. HIQA’s assessment examined the evidence for all four commercially available tests in Ireland. The aim was to provide advice to the HSE on potential alternatives. The decision to cover the cost of other GEP tests will need to consider factors such as patient group applicability, cost, and practicality of use in Ireland.

Conclusion:

Shelley O’Neill, who is the Deputy Director of HTA at HIQA, pointed out that GEP tests have the potential to identify individuals who might not require chemotherapy. This would be beneficial to both the patient and the healthcare system. We need to collect more data on the use of GEP tests in Ireland. This would lead to a more comprehensive evaluation of the potential applications of these tests in the future.

Reference url

Recent Posts

prior authorization reforms
     

Streamlining Prior Authorization Reforms: Impacts and Insights for HEOR

🚀 Are prior authorizations stalling care delivery in the U.S. healthcare system?

The HHS has launched an ambitious collaboration with major insurers to reform prior authorization processes across Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and commercial plans. With a goal to standardize submissions by 2027 and significantly reduce requirements by 2026, this initiative promises to accelerate care decisions and enhance transparency.

Dive into the details of these pivotal reforms and discover their potential to streamline healthcare and improve patient outcomes.

#SyenzaNews #HealthcareInnovation #healthcare #healthcarepolicy

private health funding
    

Private Health Funding Under South Africa’s National Health Insurance Act

🚀 Update on NHI in South Africa.

In their insightful article, Solanki et al. discuss the complexities of private health funding amidst the nation’s National Health Insurance Act. They discuss two key scenarios: a passive approach that risks the sustainability of the private sector and an active reform strategy that could ensure a smoother transition to universal coverage.

Curious about how these strategies could reshape healthcare access and costs in South Africa? Don’t miss out on this critical analysis!

#SyenzaNews #HealthEconomics #HealthcarePolicy

drug price transparency
     

Impending Net Drug Price Transparency Regulation in the U.S.

💡 Are you ready for a potential game-changer in drug pricing transparency?

CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz has hinted at a new rule aimed at enforcing stricter disclosures for drug prices, requiring healthcare companies to reveal actual transaction costs. This could reshape how price transparency is managed across the industry and challenge pharmacy benefit managers to rethink rebate practices.

Curious about how this will impact healthcare economics and what it means for drug affordability? Dive into the article for all the insights!

#SyenzaNews #healthcare #HealthEconomics

When you partner with Syenza, it’s like a Nuclear Fusion.

Our expertise are combined with yours, and we contribute clinical expertise and advanced degrees in health policy, health economics, systems analysis, public finance, business, and project management. You’ll also feel our high-impact global and local perspectives with cultural intelligence.

SPEAK WITH US

CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS

1950 W. Corporate Way, Suite 95478
Anaheim, CA 92801, USA

© 2025 Syenza™. All rights reserved.