Today Color Genomics unveiled the Benefits Program for Genetic Testing for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk, a first-of-its-kind initiative to offer this type of testing to an organization’s employee base.
The initial partners include 18 organizations from the Bay Area and surrounding area, who are pledging to offer their employees the Color Benefits Program.
The program will cover at least 50% of the cost of the physician-ordered Color Test for employees from October 2015 through October 2016. Color Genomics welcomes others to join in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Color Genomics launched in April 2015 to offer the Color Test: a clinical-grade, physician-ordered genetic test for 19 genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are related to breast and ovarian cancer.
All Color testing includes genetic counseling at no additional cost.
For companies participating in the Benefits Program, Color Genomics will also offer onsite educational programs with board-certified genetic counselors. Genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer risk can typically cost as much as $4,000.
Color’s price for the Color Test is $249, and with a 50% or more subsidy from employers, the fee is $125 or less for employees. In addition, during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the cost will be about $199.
The pioneering 18 organizations participating in the Color Benefits Program include: Addepar, Andreessen Horowitz, AngelList, CloudPhysics, Gainsight, Glow, Innovation Endeavors, Instacart, Medium, Sacramento Kings, Slack, Social Capital, Stripe, SurveyMonkey, Visa, and Y Combinator.