Genetic Testing in Australia: What’s Changing and Why It Matters

Access to genetic testing for breast cancer is expanding in Australia, but what does this actually mean, and how can it shape care for you or someone you love? 🧬

In this conversation, Dr Sanjeev Kumar, breast medical oncologist at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, joins Robyn, Programs & Advocacy Manager at Inherited Cancers Australia, to unpack what’s changing and why it matters.

They discuss:
✅ how updated Medicare (MBS) criteria make testing more accessible
✅ how genetic testing results can guide treatment and prevention
✅ the difference between tumour (somatic) and inherited (germline) testing
✅ and why awareness and early conversations are key to better outcomes

Genetic testing can feel complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
We’re here to help you:
💭 THINK through your options
💬 TALK with your healthcare team
🧬 TEST if it’s the right step for you

Resources mentioned in the video:
Understanding Genetic Testing: https://www.inheritedcancers.org.au/i...
Tumour Testing (somatic genetic testing): https://www.inheritedcancers.org.au/i...
Mapping Your Family Health History: https://www.inheritedcancers.org.au/g...
ICA Resource Centre: https://www.inheritedcancers.org.au/i...

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#ThinkTalkTest #GeneticTesting #InheritedCancerRisk #BreastCancerAwareness #BRCA #australia

0:00 Welcome & introductions
3:59 Mainstream genetic testing & expanded MBS access
8:01 How gene variants (like BRCA, CHEK2, ATM) shape breast cancer treatment
11:25 Tumour testing vs germline testing
15:06 Family history red flags to look out for
18:23 ICA support, next steps & your rights as a patient