FAQ
Please click on the questions below to reveal the answer
Q: Is this test covered by Medicare or by Private Health Insurance?
A:
Currently, there is no reimbursement for the cost of this test by Medicare or Private Health Insurance. However testing can be covered for Workcover, TAC, and DVA patients with a claim application letter from your physician.
Q: Why is the test important?
A:
These genetic changes are an important factor in how the drug is handled in the body. There are many other factors involved in metabolism of the drug e.g. height, weight, liver and kidney function. The pharmacogenomic test cannot explain everything about how the drug is processed in the body. However the GenesFX Health tests will provide additional essential information as to how the body handles the drug and one that can predict whether or not the right drug and dose is given to the individual. Pharmacogenomic testing will lead to a more informed choice in determining the right dose of the drug, or which drug a particular person could take.
Q: The Test result says there is an increased risk of drug side effects. Will this mean I will definitely get side effects?
A:
No because the test simply suggests which metaboliser group a person is in. The risk of such side effects may be greater in this group but not everyone will get them.
Q: How accurate are pharmacogenomic tests?
A:
GenesFX Health uses Australia’s only NATA accredited laboratory to provide the genetic testing . There is an established quality assurance program and the laboratory participates in international laboratory assurance programme. The equipment is the latest in genetic testing and as such is highly accurate. Nevertheless there are many abnormal changes (mutations) in the genes being tested and the laboratory cannot test for them all. There is therefore a small chance that rare genetic variants may not be detected.
The reports use the scientific literature which is continually updated and attempt to be as accurate as possible. However there are many other factors involved in drug response, such as weight and liver function, and so the test result is a guide only.
Q: My doctor is not familiar with pharmacogenomic tests. What can I do to bring them to his attention?
A:
If you are enquiring about a test you have found on the GenesFX website then print out the test page and also the request form and tae them to your doctor. Your Doctor may also be interested in the website and can obtain access to important alternative therapy information by registering.
Q: Do I need a blood test?
A:
Blood tests are conveniently done with other pathology tests at local collection centres. If you are not having any other tests and want to avoid a blood test request a cheekbrush kit by the contact us menu.
Q: Why test for more multiple genes at once?
A:
Many drugs are metabolised by more than one enzyme and many people are on more than one drug at any one time or during their lifetime.
DNAdose tests from common variants for the following genes simultaneously: CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, VKORC1.
Q: How quickly do I learn about my result?
A:
Once we receive the sample from the laboratory, your doctor will receive the result within 5-7 working days, at which point he or she would be able to discuss your results with you.
Q: How do I find the closest blood collection centre near me?
A:
Search for nearest collection centre by visiting: http://www.healthscopepathology.com.au