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<p>In February 2017, testing for Lynch syndrome was recommended by the National Institute
for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as important in identifying genetic predisposition
to bowel cancer, which could lead to better outcomes for patients through earlier
diagnosis and treatment. The NICE guideline does not carry a funding direction and
therefore commissioners, clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) and NHS England, need
to consider the implementation of the guidance alongside other priorities and any
financial impact on pathology services and genetic testing services. Also, the NICE
guidance recommends, but does not mandate, how healthcare professionals should apply
the guidance to those diagnosed with bowel cancer.</p><p> </p><p>Barnsley, alongside
other CCGs in the area, currently use a testing service in Leeds. It is not commissioned
as it is being provided free of charge as part of a pilot piece of work. Referrals
are made where hospital clinicians judge this to be appropriate. However, the Cancer
Alliance is looking at future options in the expectation that the free provision in
Leeds may stop once the current pilot ends.</p><p> </p><p>NHS England will be working
with CCG pathology service commissioners during 2018/19 to determine whether they
can jointly develop a policy proposition relating to genetic testing for Lynch syndrome
that takes into account the NICE guideline and helps to ensure that patients and their
families receive the test where appropriate.</p>
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