NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the University of Michigan Health System today announced a collaboration with healthcare providers to improve genetic testing practices.
As part of the initiative called Genetic Testing Resource and Quality Consortium, BCBS Michigan and UMHS are collaborating with doctors and laboratories across the state to determine when the use of genetic tests are appropriate for common clinical scenarios and which tests may best serve the patient. Participants will also develop best practices around testing.
BCBS Michigan and UMHS are currently recruiting participants, David Keren, co-clinical director of the initiative and director of the division of clinical pathology at UMHS, said in a statement. Afterward, medical literature, clinical protocols, and patient data will be reviewed to determine which tests are most appropriate.
"We'll then focus on making sure the right tests are performed the right way, at the right time, for the right patient, and for the right reasons," he said.