When someone is diagnosed with non–small cell lung cancer, they have a tissue biopsy, which involves removing a small piece of tissue from a tumour in the lung. If the biopsy shows they have a genetic mutation that affects the EGFR gene, they are given a specific type of medication to treat their cancer.
However, after receiving treatment, about 60% of these people will acquire another mutation, called the EGFR T790M resistance mutation, which makes them resistant to the medication and allows their cancer to progress. Instead of undergoing another tissue biopsy to test for that mutation, a blood test (often called liquid biopsy) can be done instead. If a person has the mutation, they are given a different medication.
This health technology assessment looked at how accurate and useful liquid biopsy is for detecting EGFR T790M resistance mutation in people with non–small cell lung cancer, its cost-effectiveness, and the budget impact of publicly funding liquid biopsy in Ontario. It also looked at the experiences, preferences, and values of people with lung cancer and their families.
Read the full Health Technology Assessment report for more information.
The Ministry of Health has accepted this recommendation.
The Ministry of Health has provided the following response: The Ministry has a standardized process in place to review health technology assessments and funding recommendations. This takes into consideration Ministry priorities, implementation options, the need for consultation with impacted stakeholders, and funding considerations.