Sunday, January 14, 2024

Very Brief Blog: AMA Posts 29 PLA Code Applications

 Each quarter, AMA accepts new PLA code applications, and after about 3 months, releases the results (with the AMA's edits.)

On January 2, 2024, AMA released 11 new PLA codes (the October submissions) - here.

On January 12, 2024, AMA released its current new batch of submitted applications for review.  Here

There are 29 new code applications, and 2 revisions, and 2 deletions.   If you want to comment on any of them, you must review the list very quickly and submit a request-to-comment very quickly (within a couple days).


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AI Corner

I asked Chat GPT 4 for a press release about the 5p document.

User

Take the role of an expert health policy journalist who specializes in oncology.   Provide a detailed press release announcing the release of this PDF document, raising readers' interest, and letting readers in health policy know the document is available open access.  If the document has guidance for submitting comments, highlight that also.


ChatGPT

Press Release: Comprehensive Oncology Test Codes List Now Available for Open Access


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


[City, Date] – The American Medical Association (AMA) has released a groundbreaking document titled "2023 PLA Applicant Code List," now available for open access. This pivotal release marks a significant stride in the field of oncology, offering a detailed list of 43 unique laboratory tests, including 15 dedicated to cancer research and diagnostics. [I count 29 not 43]

As an expert health policy journalist specializing in oncology, I'm excited to announce that this document not only provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in cancer testing but also reflects the AMA's commitment to transparency and collaborative development in medical practice.

Key Highlights of the Document:

Diverse Oncology Tests: The document details an array of oncology tests, ranging from gene expression analysis to minimal residual disease detection, providing invaluable resources for researchers, clinicians, and policy makers.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques: These tests leverage cutting-edge techniques such as PCR, mass spectrometry, NGS, and ELISA, underscoring the rapid evolution of cancer diagnostics.

Open Access for Enhanced Collaboration: By making this document publicly available, the AMA fosters an environment of shared knowledge, crucial for the ongoing battle against cancer.

A Call to Action for Health Policy Experts:

This release is more than just a list; it's a beacon for interdisciplinary collaboration. Health policy experts, researchers, and clinicians are encouraged to delve into this rich resource to aid in developing more effective cancer treatment and management strategies.

Participation and Feedback Welcome:

In line with the AMA's inclusive approach, the document contains guidance for submitting comments and feedback. This is a unique opportunity for professionals in the field to contribute their insights, ensuring that the list remains relevant and comprehensive.

Accessing the Document:

The "2023 PLA Applicant Code List" is readily available for download and review. Visit [AMA's website or the provided link] to access this crucial resource.

About the Author:

As a health policy journalist with a focus on oncology, [John Smith] has dedicated his career to bridging the gap between medical advancements and policy implications. 

Contact Information:

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact [Your Name] at [Your Contact Information].

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User

Which 3 of the many tests, do you think is most unusual, interesting, and/or important?   please list these 3 tests and explain why each was selected from the nearly-30-test list.

Selecting the most unusual, interesting, and important tests from the document, here are three that stand out:

RightMed Oncology Medication Report (ID 101392): This test uses SNP genotyping by real-time PCR to analyze 24 genes from whole blood or buccal DNA. It's significant because it provides insights into gene-drug interactions and impacted phenotypes, which is crucial for personalized cancer treatment.

EarlyTect® Bladder Cancer Detection (ID 101532): This test is noteworthy for its use of methylated PENK DNA detection in urine, a novel approach for bladder cancer likelihood assessment. Its non-invasive nature and focus on early detection make it a significant advancement in oncology diagnostics.

Afirma Xpression Atlas (ID 101542): This test involves mRNA gene expression analysis of 593 genes from thyroid fine needle aspirates. It's important for its comprehensive approach in identifying various sequence variants and rearrangements, including BRAF, RAS, RET, PAX8, and NTRK, which are critical in thyroid cancer diagnostics and treatment planning.

[note!! It did not see this was a deletion of 0204U.]

These tests were selected for their innovative approaches in cancer diagnostics, potential impact on personalized medicine, and their representation of the advancement in molecular techniques in oncology.

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Please provide an illustration highlighting one of the 3 tests.