When Is a Test “Genetic?” The Case of Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests

Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are increasingly popular. Are these tests "genetic," and if so, can insurers use them in the risk assessment process? This article reviews definitions of genetic tests. It then reviews the motivation for limiting insurers' access to genetic tests and examines the wording in the legislation in 3 English speaking jurisdictions. It then attempts to establish whether MECD results are included in the legislation.

Authors

Publication Details

Journal
Journal of Insurance Medicine
Published
2026-06-16
DOI
https://doi.org/10.17849/insm-53-2-1-4.1b
Primary Topic
BRCA gene mutations in cancer
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

When Is a Test “Genetic?” The Case of Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests

Timothy Meagher
Journal of Insurance Medicine
BRCA gene mutations in cancer
article

When Is a Test “Genetic?” The Case of Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests

Timothy Meagher
article en

Abstract

Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are increasingly popular. Are these tests "genetic," and if so, can insurers use them in the risk assessment process? This article reviews definitions of genetic tests. It then reviews the motivation for limiting insurers' access to genetic tests and examines the wording in the legislation in 3 English speaking jurisdictions. It then attempts to establish whether MECD results are included in the legislation.

Journal of Insurance MedicineVol. 53(2)
Openalex Percentile: Top 8%
BRCA gene mutations in cancer
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When Is a Test “Genetic?” The Case of Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests — Timothy Meagher · Journal of Insurance Medicine (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS