Clinical Panel Gives Thumbs-Down for Pharmacogenetic Testing

Genetic testing to help guide drug treatment for psychological disorders and drug abuse will not be covered by state-run health benefit programs in Washington, including workers’ compensation, following a decision by a clinical committee within the state Health Care Authority. The 11-member Health Technology Clinical Committee made its decision after reviewing evidence related to the safety, efficacy and cost effectiveness of the genetic testing. The findings were formally adopted last month. The genetic testing, also known as pharmacogenetic or pharmacogenomic testing, is intende...