BRCA testing

[Linda]

Hi all. Here's my info:
I was advised to be tested because both my grandmothers' had bc (one in her 40's, one at 70) and I am an Ashkanaze Jew, which is a high risk ethnic group. I had something like an 11% chance of carrying the mutation, and saw a genetics counselor at a big University hospital prior to the test. My insurance paid the whole cost (Cigna) -- however Myriad would not run the test until the insurance clearance went through. I tested negative.
Linda
Ps. As I posted earlier, I was told that her+ bc is usually not BRCA+. Even so, it's not impossible or unwise to be tested.

[Karen Weixel]

I am the 12th person on my mom's side to get bc and I still had to pay a portion ($800) of the cost.

karen

[Kimberly Lewis]

I guess every one does in a way though. I sought out the geneticist myself. She worked in the cancer center where my Onc was but he certainly didn't think of it and was surprised I tested positive. We are insured through my husbands co. and had to pay $200. of it. Be sure you go to a board certified counselor. There is a website of course...
http://www.abgc.net/english/view.asp?x=1 is the one I found - they have lists of counselors if you have to do it by yourself.

I think after the work up of past family history I had only 16% possibility. So when I was positive even I was surprised. History gets fuzzy real fast though! It was hard to get information. My son was negative, my daughter positive. But now we know and that does help!
Hope this helps....

[Stephanie B.]

I don't have a family history, but my onc. ordered the test because I have a daughter and was worried. My insurance picked up 100% of the cost. I have Blue Cross of California-GEM Care. I came back negative by the way. Good luck.

Stephanie B.

[harrie]

Yes, 100% payment.