For patients
Testing process

Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score® testing process 

Learn about the testing process, which typically takes place while you’re recovering from your biopsy or surgery.
A couple talking to a doctor and smiling at each other.

What to expect once your doctor orders your test.

The Breast Recurrence Score® test uses tumor tissue that’s already been removed from your breast during your biopsy or during surgery.

Step 1

Your doctor sends in your tumor sample

Test samples sitting on a table in the Exact Sciences lab.
Since your tissue has already been collected, there’s no need for you to undergo any additional procedures.

Step 2

The lab analyzes your sample and sends back your results

An Exact Sciences lab technician working with a microscope.
Once it has arrived at our lab, the tissue is tested to measure the activity of cancer-related genes in your tumor tissue.

Step 3

You and your doctor discuss your results

Two women talking to a doctor.
Your test results will reveal how likely your tumor is to return in another part of your body and the likelihood that you will benefit from chemotherapy. Learn more about your test results.

Step 4

Billing

A mother and daughter smiling at each other.
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible, no matter who they are, where they live, or how much money they make. The Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score test is covered by Medicare and many major insurance plans. Learn more here.
A woman standing talking to a doctor with a tablet.

Talking to your doctor

Our Doctor Discussion Guide can help you prepare for a conversation with your doctor on the benefits of knowing your risk and if chemotherapy is necessary. The guide includes questions like:

If I am a candidate for the Breast Recurrence Score test, how could we use the test results to develop my treatment plan?
What are my treatment options? What do you suggest for me and why? How do I know if I truly need chemotherapy? 
Is it okay to wait a few weeks to consider my treatment plan options before I have to make a decision about treatment?
The Breast Recurrence Score test is well covered

86% of patients paid $0

91% paid less than $100*

*This calculation includes patients with Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, Managed Medicaid, and commercial insurance. Patients with high-deductible plans may receive a bill for most or all the cost of the Breast Recurrence Score test if they have not satisfied their deductible. The numbers cited are based on historical patient billing data from 1/2/2024 to 12/31/2024. Rates of coverage vary by state and region. Exceptions for coverage may apply. Exact Sciences strongly encourages your patient to contact their insurer with questions about Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score test coverage.

Real people. Real stories. Real results.

See how patients with invasive breast cancer used their Recurrence Score results to help inform their treatment plan.
Katherine in ski gear smiling on a snowy slope.

Katherine Y.

“This test helped me decide -- and survive”

Katherine pushed to get more information about her recurrence risk 20 years ago. What she learned helped guide her treatment decisions. Now, she wants others to do the same.

Node-negative invasive breast cancer
Recurrence Score result: 18

Ellie T.

“This test gave me the assurance that I needed chemotherapy.”

Ellie got results she didn’t want to hear, but the Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score test helped her be confident about her decision to move forward with chemotherapy.

Node-negative invasive breast cancer
Recurrence Score result: 31
Ellie sitting at a desk with papers and files.

Have questions?

Call us at 1 866-662-6897.

References

  • Ellie is related to an Exact Sciences employee