Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville PC is pleased to share that Taryn Couture and Peggy Tighe, in coordination with the Access to Equitable Carrier Screening Coalition (“AECS”), advocated for Cigna’s updated coverage that now includes expanded carrier screening (“ECS”), genetic testing for reproductive carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis.
Cigna is one of the 10 largest health plans in America, and this coverage update, effective April 10, supports more equitable coverage of carrier screening. ECS is a lab panel that provides individuals and couples, regardless of their background, with a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of their risk of passing on a genetic condition to their child.
Historically, insurance plans have only covered genetic tests for carrier screening based on ethnicity-based frameworks, which create gaps in care by missing carriers in diverse populations. Recent technology, data and guidance have proven that a more equitable approach to carrier screening through ECS is an appropriate screening tool to be used in our diverse population. Insurance plans are now following suit.
AECS is a multi-stakeholder coalition dedicated to advancing access to ECS by engaging key stakeholders, including patient advocacy groups, facilitating education on expanded carrier screening, and collaborating with payers to support coverage of ECS.
To learn more about Powers Healthcare Policy and Advocacy work, click here.
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