Medibank first insurer to pay towards pharmacogenetic testing

Medibank is the first Australian health insurer to pay towards pharmacogenetic testing (PGx) for eligible customers, as part of its commitment to improve health access and affordability.

PGx testing is a DNA test that can help to identify how a person’s unique genetic makeup may affect their response to medication. It aims to personalise prescription medication for better efficacy and safety. It can also help avoid potential adverse side-effects and improve health outcomes, as well as potentially save time and money spent on a medicine trial-and-error process.

PGx testing is used by GPs or specialist doctors to improve treatment for conditions, including mental health conditions, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, heart disease, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, gastrointestinal and Huntington disease.

Medibank Chief Medical Officer, and practicing psychiatrist, Dr Andrew Wilson said the health company was always looking at new innovations and technology that can help its customers.

“PGx testing is a great example of using technology to improve patient care. It allows health professionals to make data-driven decisions about which medications are most likely to work for each patient, based on their unique genetic profile,” said Dr Wilson

“This innovation helps address a longstanding challenge in medicine – the fact that medications don’t affect everyone the same way.

“For people who need treatment for mental health conditions, finding the right drug may take a fair bit of trial and error – sometimes months or years of it. In some cases, the medication that has been prescribed is not effective and the patient's condition has not improved.

“PGx allows the patient and their medical professionals to understand their genetic profile, which includes how they metabolise medication, so they are more likely to get the right medication as well as the right dosage. In many cases, the person is on the right medication however the dosage is not right for them, and as a result they can experience side-effects or an inadequate response.

“This will save our customers and their doctors precious time and effort, often when they are at a really hard time in their life.”

The founder of myDNA, one of the largest genetic testers, Allan Sheffield said: "It’s fantastic to see private health insurers like Medibank supporting pharmacogenetic testing in Australia and making it more accessible and affordable for their customers.

“Pharmacogenetic provides doctors with valuable insights into how individuals respond to certain medications, enabling truly personalised prescribing. Being prescribed the right medication at the right dose the first time can help avoid adverse side effects and significantly improve health outcomes.”

Benefit towards pharmacogenetic testing is available for eligible Medibank health customers on eligible Extras covers. No waiting periods are required for customers to be eligible for this benefit.