Boone Health offers cancer genetic screening service
Knowing what cancers patients may be genetically pre-disposed to could lead to earlier preventative measures, resulting in longer, higher-quality lives
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Predicting the future can be tough, but with the right information and training, predicting health problems, such as if a person will suffer from certain cancers, can lead to lifestyle changes that result in a longer life and more time with loved ones.
One nurse practitioner and one physician assistant recently completed a program through the City of Hope network to become the second and third Certified Genetic Cancer Risk Assessment Specialists at Boone Health. These two health professionals can now screen patients and identify who might be more predisposed to certain cancers earlier than ever.
“Knowledge is power. When you know your genetic risk, you can be proactive in your ability to detect cancers at an early, mostly treatable stage,” said Tonya Linthacum, nurse practitioner, who is one of the new certified genetic assessment specialists. “The screening we do here at Boone Health also allows us to identify other family members who might be at risk but hadn’t thought to check or had no symptoms.”
The screening process is for anyone 18-years-old or older and involves an interview that dives into a full family history. The physical testing is a simple blood draw, and results are provided about two weeks later. After receiving the blood test results, the specialists review them with the patient and discuss recommendations. No referral is needed, and insurance typically covers the testing if certain criteria are met. If insurance won’t cover the test, most patients pay less than $250 out-of-pocket.
People who should consider getting the screening include those who have a history of certain cancers such as breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, colon or melanoma.
Linthacum knows first-hand about the devastating consequences of cancer. She had a younger sister who died at the age of 5. That loss propelled Linthacum into her career where she became passionate about proactive health care.
“We also recommend a consultation for individuals with limited family history knowledge,” said Tawny Loyd, a physician assistant at Boone Health and the other newly certified genetic assessment specialist. “Cancer affects everyone somehow. And because of our connections through the City of Hope, if we have a complex case, we have access to a plethora of experts who can provide key input as we develop a plan for the patient’s future.”
According to the NIH, one specialized cancer genetic professional exists for every 600 newly diagnosed patients. Boone Health now has three on staff, with Dr. Anne Petersen having been certified since 2022.