Quest Diagnostics Introduces New Pharmacogenomics Service
Quest Diagnostics, a prominent provider of diagnostic information services, has unveiled an advanced pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing service that aims to assist healthcare providers in understanding their patients' unique genetic responses to various drug therapies. This expanded PGx laboratory test service is designed to enhance the ability to tailor medication selections and dosing across multiple medical specialties, including psychiatry, neurology, cardiology, oncology, rheumatology, pain management, and transplant recipients.
Personalized Medication Insights
According to Steven Keiles, the General Manager of US Specialty Genetics and Genomics Services at Quest Diagnostics, the introduction of this PGx offering is intended to empower clinicians by leveraging genetic insights for more effective prescription management. The goal is to reduce the process of trial and error in medication selection, leading to better health outcomes for patients.
Exploring the Benefits of Pharmacogenomic Testing
Pharmacogenomic testing has shown promise in minimizing therapeutic failures and adverse drug interactions (ADIs). These tests can potentially reduce unnecessary healthcare costs by preventing drug-related complications. Quest's new PGx service analyzes 17 genes and 4 HLA alleles associated with known gene-drug interactions, which have been established as medically relevant based on guidelines from various expert organizations.
Comprehensive Reporting and Support Tools
The service offers a Quest-generated report that includes genotype information and predicted responses to medication, alongside essential guidance on medication options. This personalized report is powered by Coriell Life Sciences, which has now become part of InformedDNA®. Additionally, clinicians are provided access to GeneDose LIVE, a clinical decision-support tool designed to help evaluate patient therapies comprehensively. By assessing both genetic and non-genetic factors, this tool offers insightful recommendations based on current evidence from gene-drug associations.
Improving Patient-Centric Care
Dr. Jeffrey Shaman, Vice President of Medical Affairs at InformedDNA, emphasizes that the collaboration with Quest is driven by a shared objective of transforming genetic results into enhanced health outcomes. Their partnership aims to provide healthcare providers with clear guidance on medication selection that aligns with each patient's genetic profile, ultimately aiming for a more individualized treatment approach.
Accessible Testing Options
Patients can access Quest's pharmacogenomics testing by submitting a requisition from their healthcare provider at any of Quest's extensive network of patient service centers spread throughout the nation. For added convenience, Quest also offers home collection services, making it easier for individuals to complete testing without the need for in-office visits.
Understanding Pharmacogenomics
Variability in drug metabolism can significantly impact individual responses to medications. Factors such as drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters may lead to adverse consequences, including treatment failures or serious drug interactions. With the insights gained from pharmacogenomic testing, healthcare providers can optimize drug regimens tailored to specific genetic profiles, enhancing both safety and efficacy in prescribing practices.
About InformedDNA and Coriell Life Sciences
InformedDNA, recognized as a leader in applied genomics solutions, has merged with Coriell Life Sciences to create a formidable entity in the field of genetic science. This union combines deep genetic expertise and innovative technologies, aiming to propel precision medicine to the forefront of clinical decision-making and enhance patient outcomes while reducing costs.
About Quest Diagnostics
At Quest Diagnostics, the mission is to create a healthier world, impacting lives one at a time. By providing crucial diagnostic insights from laboratory testing, Quest enables patients and healthcare providers to make informed decisions that ultimately lead to better health outcomes. Serving a significant share of the U.S. population, Quest Diagnostics is committed to delivering actionable insights that pave the way for improved disease management and healthier lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pharmacogenomics testing?
Pharmacogenomics testing analyzes how an individual's genetic makeup affects their response to medications, enabling personalized treatment decisions.
How does Quest Diagnostics' PGx service benefit patients?
The PGx service provides precise insights into medication choices, reducing the risk of adverse drug interactions and enhancing treatment effectiveness.
What medical specialties can benefit from this service?
The service is relevant to various medical fields, including psychiatry, neurology, oncology, and cardiology, among others.
How can patients access the pharmacogenomics testing?
Patients can obtain testing by presenting a test requisition from their healthcare provider at any Quest patient service center or through home collection services.
Who developed the genetic insights used in the PGx service?
The service is informed by expert organizations' guidelines, ensuring that the genetic information is relevant and medically actionable.
