Genetic Testing Program
Genetic testing looks for mutations or variants in a person’s DNA. These tests can help:
- predict a person’s predisposition to disease
- provide diagnostic or prognostic information
- inform treatment decisions
Our Role
We implement and oversee genetic testing for cancer and rare and inherited conditions through the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Program. This includes quality oversight, planning, and implementation of expanded and new testing as new evidence becomes available and care evolves.
Funded Testing
Comprehensive Cancer Biomarker Testing Program (Adult)
The Comprehensive Cancer Biomarker Testing Program supports patient management through the testing of diagnostic, predictive and prognostic markers. The program makes sure patients have access to testing that is standardized, comprehensive, evidence-based and coordinated across the province.
Hereditary Cancer Testing Program (Adult and Pediatric)
The provincial Hereditary Cancer Testing Program provides comprehensive germline testing for people with cancer and their families.
A set of criteria for hereditary cancer testing help ensure access to this testing is clinically appropriate for individuals based on their personal and/or family history of cancer. The criteria include considerations for tumour pathology and decision support for treatment.
For more information, see Hereditary Cancer Testing Eligibility Criteria.