OPINION: Tennessee must pass HB0484, SB0435

As a fourth-generation rheumatoid arthritis patient, I understand the importance of access to effective treatment. I also know what happens without it. I watched my grandmother spend nearly 20 years in constant agony before complications from rheumatoid arthritis took her life. Her experience reflects what happens when patients lack access to precision testing and personalized treatments needed to effectively manage chronic conditions. 

The Tennessee legislature now has an opportunity to expand access to innovative testing that allows doctors to tailor treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, lupus, and many other serious conditions. House Bill 0484 and Senate Bill 0435 would require health plans to cover biomarker testing– a critical tool that helps doctors diagnose disease earlier, understand prognosis, and develop precise treatment plans based on each patient’s unique biology. 

During my first visit with my rheumatologist 15 years ago, he told me that my arthritis could not be cured– only slowed. At the time, my body was quickly changing. Once a distance runner, I faced the reality that, without effective medication, I would soon need a cane, walker or electric scooter. My doctor ordered biomarker testing to better understand my condition and recommend the best course of treatment. 

The biomarker test results showed my genetic predisposition to both rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, allowing my doctor to select medications more likely to work early in my disease, without much trial-and-error. This early and targeted intervention was key to preventing disability and slowing permanent damage to my heart, lungs, kidneys, and bones. 

And when I was diagnosed with aggressive triple-positive breast cancer over a year ago, I again received the value of biomarker testing. My oncologist designed an effective treatment plan that targeted my cancer, without disrupting my chronic autoimmune diseases. I am so grateful to have had access to biomarker testing to improve my quality and length of life, but not all patients are as fortunate.  

Despite its proven benefits, many patients face insurance barriers that delay or deny biomarker testing. Coverage policies are often inconsistent, leaving patients without the information their doctors need to make timely, accurate treatment decisions. These delays can lead to disease progression, unnecessary suffering, and higher long-term costs.    

Biomarker testing moves beyond trial-and-error prescribing and delivers more precise, personalized care for some of the hardest to treat diseases. And all Tennesseans deserve access to the right treatment at the right time. 

That’s why our Tennessee lawmakers must quickly pass HB0484/SB0435 and ensure insurance coverage of biomarker testing. Other states, including neighboring Kentucky, have already expanded access to this essential technology. Tennessee should not fall behind.

For people like me– and for the thousands of Tennesseans living with cancer, arthritis, lupus, Alzheimer’s, and other serious diseases– biomarker testing is not a luxury. It is a necessity. I urge lawmakers to pass this commonsense legislation and ensure every patient has the opportunity not only to manage disease, but to live and thrive.

No patient should have to suffer the way my grandmother did simply because they lacked access to the medical tools that could have helped them. Tennessee can act now to ensure that future generations receive innovative, precision care. 

Beth Madison, Ph.D., is a fourth-generation rheumatoid arthritis patient and an advocate for improved patient access to care. She also teaches in the School of Adult and Professional Studies at Union University.