What is the Cost of an NGS Test for Cancer?

NGS Test Cost for Cancer in India: Price Breakdown

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is bringing a revolution in the field of cancer treatment. It enables a comprehensive and rapid analysis of genetic mutations which occur in tumours. NGS testing has now become an invaluable tool in personalising cancer care. However, this cutting-edge technology comes with significant costs. The cost of an NGS Tests for Cancer vary greatly based on the type of genes being tested.

Understanding the NGS Test for Cancer

Next-generation sequencing refers to a method of DNA sequencing that enables the simultaneous analysis of millions of DNA fragments at the same time. When it comes to diagnosing cancer, NGS can detect amplifications, mutations, rearrangements, and deletions in tumour cells. This type of information helps oncologists determine the most effective form of treatment, especially when considering targeted therapies or immunotherapies.

By identifying specific mutations, NGS can lead to more effective and targeted treatment plans, reducing the need for other less-effective traditional therapies. This also reduces the overall costs in the long term.

Cost Surrounding NGS Test for Cancer

The overall costs of NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) tests for cancer vary greatly based on the type of genes being tested. For instance, NGS panels for Lung Cancer range from Rs. 32,000 to Rs. 56,000. Other tests, such as a 50-gene panel, can have a cost range of between Rs. 35,000 and Rs. 40,000. While getting a 3-marker test costs between Rs. 12,000 and Rs. 15,000.

Factors Contributing to the Costs of NGS Test for Cancer

Here is a list of some factors that contribute to the overall cost of getting an NGS test for cancer:

Type of Test

There are various types of NGS Cancer tests available. Some of them are - Cancer 50 Gene Portal, Cancer Gene Any 3 Markers, 98 Gene Portal, Comprehensive Genomic Profiling, etc. All of them have different costs associated with them. Hence, the more complicated the procedure, the higher the total cost of the treatment.

Laboratory and Provider

The laboratory and provider from whom one decides to get the treatment also contribute to the overall costs associated with it. For instance, an in-house testing centre would charge much less than a high-profile medical clinic or facility.

Location of the Medical Facility

The location of the clinic or medical facility also plays a vital role in determining the costs of NGS tests for cancer. For instance, the total costs of such a procedure in Hyderabad are vastly different from those in Mumbai.

Additional Services

An NGS treatment requires the use of bioinformatics software for data interpretation. Hence, such equipment for the procedure results in a higher overall treatment cost.

While the NGS test for cancer may seem like an expensive option, it offers significant long-term cost savings and improved health outcomes. Furthermore, NGS tests provide more accurate and faster results than traditional methods. This reduces delays in treatment and significantly improves patient outcomes.

Insurance Coverage & Reimbursement Policies 

In India, there are many health insurance companies that do not provide full coverage to the patient for NGS testing for cancer. This can cause a huge financial burden on the patient and his family. However, some health plans or critical illness policies can partially reimburse the cost, although the approval for this depends on the necessity of the test. 

Type of Sample and the Quality

With various NGS Cancer tests available, the tests which are performed using blood samples are high-priced. It can cost you around Rs. 50,000 to 75,000. However, tests done using tissue biopsies are more cost-effective than liquid biopsy. However, if the quality of either of the tests performed is not proper, the specialist may ask you to go for a test again, which can add additional cost. 

Post-Test Counselling & Follow-Up

There may be a need for genetic counselling, which can charge you somewhere around Rs. 5000 to 10,000 per session. It is often required to understand the implications. Although some hospitals group this service together in a single payment, whereas others charge individually for it. 

While the NGS test for cancer may seem like an expensive option, it offers significant long-term cost savings and improved health outcomes. Furthermore, NGS tests provide more accurate and faster results than traditional methods. This reduces delays in treatment and significantly improves patient outcomes.

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