Integrating Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests Into Clinical Practice: The Health Economics Perspective for Managed Care Professionals

This activity includes Pharmacy SoundScripts audio narration. 

Program Description

In the United States, almost half of cancers are preventable. Early detection would allow for cancer treatment to be more effective both in cost and patient outcomes, yet established cancer screening tools are underutilized. Blood-based technologies, known as multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, can identify multiple cancers early and simultaneously. As more becomes elucidated about the significance of early cancer detection, it becomes evident that MCED tests not only promise to enhance patient outcomes but also hold the key to optimizing health care resource allocation and curbing the socioeconomic burden of cancer. When utilized appropriately, these MCED technologies have the potential to detect a higher proportion of early-stage, treatment-amenable cancers. It is imperative that managed care professionals are educated about the recent and ongoing advancements in the field of oncology to spearhead the integration of MCED technologies into care of cancers that do not have a screening method and are often diagnosed in advanced stages. This activity will provide managed care professionals with the tools and resources needed to identify and address the various barriers and health disparities that contribute to low rates of cancer screenings, offer a deeper insight into the cost-effectiveness of novel MCED tests, and equip them with knowledge of the clinical and economic benefits associated with early cancer detection and treatment.

Target audience: Managed care pharmacists
Type of activity: Application
Release date: June 28, 2024
Expiration date: June 28, 2025
Learner level: Intermediate
Time to complete activity: 1.5 hours
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Explain the underlying principles and technologies behind emerging multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests within current cancer control and screening protocols.
• Analyze the clinical evidence supporting the validation processes, efficacy, and utility of MCED tests, including their sensitivity and specificity.
• Identify the health economics and outcomes research aspects of MCED tests, including their cost-effectiveness, reimbursement considerations, and implications for managed care organizations.
• Explore opportunities and challenges for incorporating MCED tests into cancer screening standards, including strategies for patient education, provider engagement, and collaborative care models.