Test Directory Changes

The National Genomic Test Directory is updated twice a year to include the latest tests now commissioned by NHSE.

From July 31st, the Test Directory will include an extended R444 panel to include eligibility for Talazoparib, a PARP inhibitor used in the treatment of breast cancer.

This change reflects a decision made by NICE earlier this year to license Talazoparib for the treatment of HER2-negative advanced breast cancer patients who have germline variants in BRAC1 or BRCA2 genes.

We will be accepting R444 referrals for eligible patients from July 31st with an expected turnaround time of 42 days. There is no change to the referral pathway.

In order to provide a consistent approach for all breast cancer patients, we will test for variants on all genes included on the R444.1 panel, for both Olaparib and Talazoparib referrals.

Read the NICE guidance here and find the National Genomic Test Directory here.