Benefits of genetic testing
- Determine the molecular cause of the disease
- Provide clarity and a firm diagnosis
- Guide therapy selection and monitoring
- Allow disease risk profiling in families
Genetic testing is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins. We inherit genes from our parents, which we then pass on to our children. “Errors” in our genes (called “pathogenic variants”) can contribute to the disease, and genetic tests may be used to confirm the underlying molecular disease diagnosis. Several methods can be used for genetic testing:
Testing has benefits as well as limitations and risks and the decision about whether to be tested is a personal and complex one. An AccelerateMed geneticist or genetic counselor can help by providing information about the pros and cons of the test and discussing the social and emotional aspects of testing.
Our genetic testing is performed by accredited, high quality global partner labs that regularly take part in external quality assurance testing.
In some cases, private health insurance plans may cover the costs of genetic testing when it is recommended by the physician. A person interested in submitting the costs of testing may wish to contact his or her insurance company beforehand to ask about coverage. Another option is to pay out-of-pocket for the test.
The physical risks associated with most genetic tests are very small, particularly for those tests that require only a blood sample or buccal (inside surface of the cheek) smear. The procedures used for prenatal testing carry a small but real risk of miscarriage because they require a sample of amniotic fluid or tissue from around the fetus.
Many of the risks associated with genetic testing involve the emotional, social, or financial consequences of the test results. People sometimes feel angry, depressed, anxious, or guilty about their results. In some cases, genetic testing creates tension within a family because the results can reveal information about other family members in addition to the person who is tested. Our trained AccelerateMed counselors can help reduce these risks.
Genetic testing can provide only limited information about an inherited condition. The test often can't predict if a person will show symptoms of a disorder, how severe the symptoms will be, or whether the disorder will progress over time. Another major limitation is the lack of treatment strategies or prohibitive cost for many genetic disorders once they are diagnosed.
Our trained AccelerateMed genetics professionals can explain in detail the benefits, risks, and limitations of a particular test. It is important that any person who is considering genetic testing understand and weigh these factors before making a decision to proceed.
The cost of genetic testing can range from approximately $1,000TT to more than $35,000TT depending on the nature and complexity of the test. The cost increases if more than one test is necessary or if multiple family members must be tested to obtain a meaningful result. From the date that a sample is taken, it may take a few weeks to several months to receive the test results. The doctor or AccelerateMed Genetic Counselor who orders a particular test can provide specific information about the cost and time frame associated with receiving.
Get in touch with our AccelerateMed Genetic Counselors
Our consultation service is available in several languages
Contact Us At
(868) 292-0592