Veterans and families gain access to Shield test with no copay requirement
NORTH CAROLINA – U.S. veterans and their eligible family members now have access to a groundbreaking blood test for colorectal cancer screening through the Department of Veterans Affairs Community Care Network, marking a significant expansion in cancer prevention services for military families.
First Coverage for Younger Adults
Guardant Health announced that its Shield™ blood test is now covered as an in-network benefit for patients receiving VA-authorized community care, with no copay for average-risk individuals aged 45 and older. This coverage represents a historic milestone as the first extension of the screening benefit beyond the Medicare population to include younger adults aged 45-64.
The VA Community Care Network serves approximately 9.1 million beneficiaries through community-based healthcare practitioners who provide medical services to veterans outside traditional VA facilities.
FDA-Approved Innovation
The Shield blood test received FDA approval in July 2024 as the first blood-based screening tool for primary colorectal cancer detection. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services subsequently granted the test Advanced Diagnostic Laboratory Test status, paving the way for broader insurance coverage.
“We are proud of the lifesaving value that the Shield blood test can bring to U.S. veterans and their families,” said AmirAli Talasaz, co-CEO of Guardant Health. “This coverage decision by the VA is the first for younger and non-Medicare beneficiaries and we are excited to broaden the impact of our screening test to help detect more colorectal cancer early, when it is most treatable.”
Expanding Access to Early Detection
The coverage expansion follows Medicare’s approval of Shield in August 2024, demonstrating growing institutional confidence in blood-based cancer screening technology. The test can be ordered by any prescribing healthcare provider and offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional colorectal cancer screening methods.
Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States, making early detection crucial for successful treatment outcomes. The availability of a simple blood test could significantly increase screening compliance among eligible populations.
About Guardant Health
Founded in 2012, Guardant Health specializes in precision oncology and liquid biopsy technology. The company develops advanced blood and tissue tests, combined with real-world data and AI analytics, to improve cancer care across all stages of treatment – from early screening to advanced cancer treatment selection.
The Palo Alto-based company trades on NASDAQ under the symbol GH and continues to pioneer innovations in cancer detection and monitoring technology.
For more information about the Shield test, visit www.ShieldCancerScreen.com
