BRCA Testing: Who Qualifies, What It Covers, and How to Get Started
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations significantly raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. If you have a family history, you may qualify for testing covered by insurance.
Check My EligibilityCheck eligibility
5-minute eligibility check
Complete at-home testing
At-home test kit if qualified
Review results
Results reviewed with a counselor
What Is BRCA Testing?
BRCA testing analyzes the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes for inherited mutations that significantly raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. These are the most well-known hereditary cancer genes, and mutations in either one can have a major impact on lifetime cancer risk.
LifeShield tests BRCA1 and BRCA2 as part of a comprehensive hereditary cancer panel that also includes PALB2, CHEK2, ATM, and other clinically significant genes.
Should You Get BRCA-Only Testing or a Broader Hereditary Cancer Panel?
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most well-known hereditary cancer genes, but they are not the only ones. For many people, a broader multi-gene panel — which includes BRCA1, BRCA2, and additional genes like CHEK2, PALB2, ATM, and Lynch syndrome genes — provides a more complete picture of hereditary risk.
BRCA-only testing may be appropriate in specific clinical situations. In most cases, a multi-gene panel is recommended because it captures risk from genes that a BRCA-only test would miss entirely.
LifeShield tests a comprehensive hereditary cancer panel. Your genetic counselor will explain which results are most relevant to your personal and family history.
Who Should Consider BRCA Testing?
- A first-degree relative with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
- Personal or family history of breast cancer, especially before age 50
- Personal or family history of ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer
- A male relative with breast cancer
- Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with any personal or family breast or ovarian cancer history
- Triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis at any age
What LifeShield BRCA Testing Includes
NCCN-based eligibility check
Confirms whether BRCA testing is clinically indicated for your history
Comprehensive hereditary cancer panel
Includes BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CHEK2, ATM, and more — not BRCA-only
Licensed genetic counseling
Pre-test and post-test sessions with licensed genetic counselors
Insurance support
Superbill assistance and coverage navigation included
Is BRCA Testing Covered by Insurance?
Most eligible patients qualify for coverage when NCCN-based criteria are met. Major US insurers cover BRCA and hereditary cancer panel testing as a preventive benefit for patients who meet clinical guidelines.
Coverage depends on your specific plan and eligibility. LifeShield provides insurance support and superbill assistance to help navigate coverage for every patient.
Reviewed by the LifeShield Medical Team · Last reviewed: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
BRCA testing analyzes the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes for inherited mutations that significantly raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. LifeShield tests these genes as part of a broader hereditary cancer panel.
Both BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes. Mutations in either gene raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, but the specific risk levels and associated cancers differ. BRCA2 mutations are also associated with elevated pancreatic and prostate cancer risk in some individuals.
Most eligible patients qualify for coverage when NCCN criteria are met. Coverage depends on your plan. LifeShield includes insurance support and superbill assistance for all patients.
In most cases, a multi-gene panel is recommended because it captures hereditary risk from genes beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2. LifeShield tests a comprehensive panel. Your genetic counselor will explain which results are most relevant to you.
A positive result means a hereditary mutation was identified. It does not mean you will develop cancer. A genetic counselor will explain your specific risk level, recommended screening schedule, and options for risk reduction.
Ready to Check Your Eligibility?
It takes about 5 minutes and costs nothing. Find out whether hereditary cancer testing is recommended for you.
Check My EligibilityMedical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is based on published NCCN clinical guidelines and peer-reviewed research. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions. LifeShield content is reviewed by board-certified genetic counselors.