Pharmacogenomic Testing 

We also offer pharmacogenomic testing for individuals established with one of our mental health providers.

A pharmacogenomic test is an assessment of genetic variants that are known or thought to impact how a drug is metabolized by our bodies or how the drug acts on our bodies. This is a developing area of psychiatric and medical care. The pharmacogenomic test used in this clinic to evaluate mental health medications is GeneSight. This test involves the collection of a DNA sample via a cheek swab. The sample is sent to a laboratory that performs the genetic analyses and returns a report of the findings back to the clinic/patient. 

A pharmacogenomic test might help make sense of prior medication experiences, or be useful in making future medication decisions. The test results might add helpful information to inform next treatment choices. A pharmacogenomic test might help to identify or rule out known genetic factors known to impact medication treatment outcomes. 

A pharmacogenomic test does NOT help provide a diagnosis. Additionally, these tests won’t tell you whether a medication is absolutely the best one for you, or the single best option for you. Conversely, they may not always identify medications that you should avoid. These tests do not incorporate your current or past experiences with medications, which are important factors to consider when assessing possible benefits or risks from new treatments.