Perinatal Genetic Testing: Understanding the Risks and Benefits in a Rapidly Changing Field
Utilization Management Insights
By Kathryn Kolonic, DO, MPH, CPHQ,
AllMed Vice President & Medical Director
Few human experiences are as exciting and anxiety-provoking as pregnancy. The health of a baby is often a prospective parent’s greatest concern. While most babies are born healthy, the possibility or reality of a genetic disorder can be a source of severe strain for patients and families. As these conditions typically result in more frequent and longer hospitalizations, they also have a significant financial impact on the United States healthcare system. A 2020 study of a pediatric accountable care organization (ACO) found that the 22.7 percent of children in the study population whose disorders had a strong genetic basis accounted for nearly half—42.5 percent—of claims paid…