SALEM, Oregon –– Improved coverage of comprehensive biomarker testing is crucial for Oregonians to have the best chance of treating and defeating cancer and other diseases. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and its Oregon partners will advocate for expanded access during the 2027 Oregon Legislature and that work moves forward next week as the Alzheimer’s Association, Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research advocates join ACS CAN to address members of the Senate Health Care Committee during an 11:30 a.m. Tuesday informational meeting in Hearing Room B.
In cancer care, biomarkers are often used to help determine the best treatment for a patient. This testing can sometimes rule out unnecessary or ineffective treatments, potentially saving costs and avoiding potentially life-altering side effects, but insurance coverage is failing to keep pace with what is now a common tool in determining best course of treatment for many patients. Legislation is needed to ensure more Oregonians, regardless of income, geography, race, ethnicity, or age, can access biomarker testing.
Similar legislation has passed in 24 states including California, Texas, Georgia, Arizona and Mississippi.
The following statements can be used in full or in part:
ACS CAN Oregon Government Relations Director Jane Leo: “Insurance coverage for biomarker testing in Oregon has not kept pace with the latest developments. A patient who needs biomarker testing should have the chance to work with their doctor to know the best path forward for identifying potentially lifesaving or life-extending treatments. Oregonians deserve to benefit from the best treatments and research advances available and should not have to choose between buying groceries or undergoing a test that could match them with a potentially life-saving therapy."
Susan G. Komen Foundation State Policy & Advocacy Manager Elena M. Teare: "Biomarker helps breast cancer patients access more personalized and effective care. Yet too many Oregonians face barriers when insurance coverage fails to keep pace with medical advances. No patient should be denied access to a test that could identify the most effective treatments and improve chances of survival. Oregon has an opportunity to ensure patients can benefit from the latest advances in precision medicine."
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research Senior State Government Relations Manager Jared Giarrusso-Khlok: “Scientific advances are bringing us closer to a future where biomarker testing can help guide more personalized care for people with Parkinson’s disease. Oregonians deserve coverage that keeps pace with innovation so they can access new tools and make more informed decisions about their care.”
Alzheimer's Association Oregon Government Relations Director Jenna App: “With new FDA-approved blood biomarker tests for Alzheimer’s disease, combined with targeted medications that can slow disease progression, science is evolving quickly and public policy in Oregon hasn’t kept up. We need to act now to make sure all Oregonians have access to early, accurate diagnosis and treatment for Alzheimer's and other chronic diseases.”