Economic impact of broad panel versus sequential single and narrow panel sequencing in lung cancer patients.

Abstract

e18718 Background: Recent developments in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology have revolutionized our understanding of cancer biology and clinical research by improving diagnoses and recognizing mutations for personalized therapies. Sequential single (SS) gene testing and narrow panel sequencing (NPS) are used to select targeted therapies and precision medicine strategies for lung cancer patients. While broad panel sequencing (BPS) can identify more mutations than SS and NPS, it is more expensive. This study aims to assess the long-term cost-effectiveness of BPS vs. SS and NPS in lung cancer patients. Methods: This study will evaluate lung cancer patients undergoing biomarker testing insured by a large commercial and Medicare health plan in the United States between January 1, 2021, and May 31, 2021. The SS and NPS group consists of patients with 50 or fewer genes sequenced; the BPS group consists of those with more than 50 genes sequenced. Our primary clinical endpoint for analysis is the total cost of care defined as the allowed costs paid for all medical and pharmacy claims six months from the first gene sequencing panel. Multivariable regression analysis will assess the influence of explanatory variables on costs. Analysis will be complete February 28, 2022.