What is GeneSight Testing?
GeneSight is a pharmacogenomic test -- a fancy way of saying it looks at your DNA to see how your body processes different psychiatric medications. It uses a simple cheek swab (no blood draw) and returns results in about a week. Those results show your provider which medications are most likely to work well, which might need dose adjustments, and which ones your body has trouble metabolizing.
About 40% of people do not respond well to the first psychiatric medication they try. GeneSight helps reduce that trial-and-error process.
Who Should Consider GeneSight
GeneSight is most useful if you have tried one or more psychiatric medications and they did not work, caused bad side effects, or stopped working after a while. It is also helpful if you have a family history of unusual medication responses.
We use GeneSight results to guide prescribing for depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other conditions. It covers over 60 FDA-approved medications.
How It Works
The test itself takes about two minutes -- your provider swabs the inside of your cheek. The sample goes to the GeneSight lab and results come back in 5-7 business days. Your provider reviews the results with you and explains what they mean for your treatment plan.
Insurance and Cost
Most insurance plans cover GeneSight testing, including Medicare and many Medicaid plans. For patients who are uninsured or underinsured, GeneSight offers financial assistance programs. Your out-of-pocket cost is often $0-$330 depending on your plan. We will help you understand your coverage before ordering the test.
What GeneSight Does Not Do
GeneSight does not diagnose conditions. It does not tell you which medication to take -- it gives your provider better information to make that decision. Think of it as one more tool in the toolbox, not a magic answer. Your provider still uses their clinical judgment, your symptoms, and your history to build your treatment plan.