This month, the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) released the results of its cost analysis and health economic–evaluation models for a number of genomic sequencing–procedure (GSP) CPT codes. The organization also released a template tool for molecular-diagnostic labs to determine the costs of their next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays for GSPs. The AMP performed the analysis on more than a dozen protocols for information on the costs associated with assay validation, preanalytics, sequencing bioinformatics and interpretation. It conducted analyses of individual steps of protocols, with reagents, equipment time and personnel time included in determining costs. Labs can use the tool available on the AMP website to conduct microcosting on their own NGS procedures. The information should allow the labs to be reimbursed fairly by Medicare and other payers. Medicare payment rates for GSP codes will be finalized in November and enacted on January 1, 2016.

Source: AMP