Pennsylvania Expands Access to Precision Medicine with New Biomarker Testing Law

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DOYLESTOWN, PA — Incite Health, Inc. commended Governor Shapiro for signing House Bill 1754 into law on July 1, 2027. This groundbreaking legislation mandates comprehensive biomarker testing coverage by all state-regulated health plans, including Medicaid. It aims to ensure that more Pennsylvanians benefit from precision medicine.

“Governor Shapiro’s commitment to healthcare innovation and patient advocacy is evident in this landmark decision,” said Renold J. Capocasale, CEO of Incite Health. “By enabling wider access to biomarker testing, we are paving the way for targeted treatments that not only improve survival rates and quality of life but can also reduce healthcare costs for patients facing serious illnesses such as cancer or other chronic diseases.”

Biomarker testing is essential in modern healthcare. It matches patients with the most effective treatments based on their unique genetic makeup. Despite its benefits, insurance coverage for biomarker testing has been inconsistent, often forcing patients to pay out-of-pocket or skip potentially life-saving tests. House Bill 1754 aims to address these disparities, benefiting communities of color, lower-income individuals, and rural populations particularly hard-hit by limited access.

“The PA Biotech Center plays a crucial role in our region,” said PA State Senator Steve Santarsiero. “Significant advancements are consistently emerging from this center. Incite Health and the innovative work they are doing is a perfect example. Their work will significantly improve healthcare. I am pleased to have backed legislation that ensures medical coverage keeps pace with this technological advancement, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for many.”

Donna Greco, Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in Pennsylvania, praised the legislation. “With his signature, Governor Shapiro has delivered hope to countless Pennsylvanians who will benefit from biomarker testing. This game-changing bill is good for Pennsylvania, the health of our state, and its residents.”

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Christopher Molineaux, President and CEO of Life Sciences Pennsylvania, also expressed support. “As the state association that represents organizations involved in creating precision medicines and diagnostics, and the patient advocacy groups those entities serve, this legislation was of great interest. Life Sciences PA was proud to be part of the Pennsylvania Biomarker Testing Coalition and to support the legislation that expands access to biomarker testing to help determine the treatment most effective for a specific patient.”

With this new law, Pennsylvania is set to lead in providing equitable access to advanced medical diagnostics, fostering a healthier future for its residents.

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