Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about VeriStrat
What is VeriStrat?
VeriStrat is a pre-treatment serum test developed to help identify patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who are likely to benefit following treatment with EGFR-TKI therapies. The test has been evaluated in more than 2,000 patients in clinical studies.1
Why should I use VeriStrat for my NSCLC patients?
VeriStrat provides you with additional information to help you make more informed decisions when selecting either single-agent chemotherapy or EGFR-TKI therapy for patients with advanced NSCLC.
When should I use VeriStrat?
VeriStrat is intended to be used for patients with advanced NSCLC who have progressed after at least one prior chemotherapy regimen. The test should be conducted on a serum sample collected prior to initiating 2nd or 3rd line therapy. VeriStrat provides you with additional information to help you determine if the patient is a good candidate for EGFR-TKI therapy.
What type of sample is required for VeriStrat?
VeriStrat is a simple blood test using pre-treatment serum. No tumor tissue samples are required.
Is VeriStrat a validated test?
VeriStrat has been validated in a multi-institutional clinical study.2 In addition, VeriStrat was applied retrospectively to a subset of patients from the BR.21 study, the registrational trial for erlotinib. Several clinical trials are also currently underway investigating further utility of VeriStrat. For more information on these clinical trials click here.
How quickly will I receive VeriStrat test results?
In most cases, test results are provided by fax within 72 hours of sample shipment. In a small percentage of cases, the results are indeterminate, and the test may need to be performed again.
Are there specific processes to follow regarding serum collection and submission?
Yes, it is important to adhere to instructions when collecting patient samples and submitting them to Biodesix. Detailed preparation instructions are available online. Please call the VeriStrat Support Hotline at 866-432-5930 with any questions on serum collection or shipping.
Is VeriStrat reimbursed?
Biodesix is committed to making VeriStrat accessible to patients who need the test. As part of our reimbursement services, Biodesix bills insurance plans on behalf of insured patients whose physicians have ordered the VeriStrat test. As investigating insurance coverage can be complex, Biodesix established the VeriStrat Support Hotline, a free service with customer service representatives who work with patients, caregivers, physicians, and insurance carriers, to determine if the VeriStrat test will be covered and to offer assistance throughout the reimbursement process.
Does Biodesix have a financial support program for patients?
Biodesix offers a Financial Assistance Program (FAP) to help cover the costs of the VeriStrat test. Qualification for the program is based on individual financial need. For information on the FAP, please call the VeriStrat Support Hotline at 866-432-5930.
1 Data on file, Biodesix, Inc.
2 Taguchi F, Solomon B, Gregorc V, et al. Mass spectrometry to classify non-small-cell lung cancer patients for clinical outcome after treatment with epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors: a multicohort cross-institutional study. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2007;99:838-846.
