Independence has announced that it has entered into an agreement with NantHealth (access in Chrome only) to cover next-generation whole genome sequencing for a variety of cancers. Independence will become the first major insurer to offer coverage for next-generation whole genome sequencing, which fully sequences thousands of genes in a single test, detecting DNA mutations that may serve as markers that inform decisions about optimal cancer therapy.

Independence's agreement with NantHealth involves a very specific and complex lab study related to cancer, next-generation whole genomic sequencing of tumor DNA, and related proteomic testing, for certain types of cancer. The test will be covered for members with specific conditions including rare cancers, tumors in children, metastatic cancer of unknown primary, primary brain cancer, triple negative breast cancer, and metastatic cancer where conventional therapies have been exhausted and patients remain candidates for further therapy. Coverage for the testing will be available to eligible members of Independence commercial plans in March 2016.

In addition to its coverage of full genomic testing for eligible members, Independence has joined the National Immunotherapy Coalition (NIC). Launching today, the NIC will be the nation's most comprehensive cancer collaborative initiative, focused on accelerating the potential of combination immunotherapy as the next generation standard of care in cancer patients. The Coalition and its members will design, initiate and complete the Cancer Moon Shot 2020 Program, a series of randomized Phase II trials in 20,000 patients at all stages of disease in 20 tumor types within the next 24-36 months.

To learn more about Independence's newest health care initiative, please read the complete press release Independence Blue Cross Becomes First Major Insurer to Cover Next-Generation Whole Genome Sequencing for a Variety of Cancers.