GeneSight® Testing

GeneSight Testing 2

Personalized Information to Help Guide Medication Decisions

Finding the right psychiatric medication can sometimes involve trial and error. People can respond differently to the same medication, and a medication that works well for one person may not work the same way for another.

At My Care Clinic, GeneSight® testing may provide additional genetic information to help inform conversations about certain psychiatric medications. This testing may be considered as part of a broader evaluation and treatment planning process when clinically appropriate.

What Is GeneSight® Testing?

GeneSight® is a pharmacogenomic test that analyzes specific genetic variations that may affect how an individual metabolizes or responds to certain medications.

The test may provide information that helps a healthcare provider consider how certain medications may interact with an individual’s genetic profile.

GeneSight® testing is not a diagnostic test and does not determine with certainty which medication will work best for you.

Instead, results may provide additional information to consider alongside:

  • Your symptoms
  • Medical history
  • Psychiatric history
  • Previous medication experiences
  • Current medications
  • Treatment goals
  • Other clinical factors


How Does GeneSight® Testing Work?

The process is generally simple.

1. Discuss Your Treatment History

Your provider will discuss your symptoms, treatment goals, and previous experiences with psychiatric medications.

2. Complete the Test

GeneSight® testing typically uses a cheek swab to collect a DNA sample.

3. Laboratory Analysis

The sample is analyzed to identify certain genetic variations relevant to the test.

4. Review the Results

Your provider will review the results with you and discuss how the information may be considered in your treatment plan.

5. Make Informed Treatment Decisions

The results may help inform conversations about potential medication options, along with your symptoms, history, preferences, and your provider’s clinical judgment.

Who May Consider GeneSight® Testing?

Your provider may discuss pharmacogenomic testing if:

  • You have experienced side effects from psychiatric medications
  • Previous medications have not provided the desired benefit
  • You have tried multiple medications
  • You are beginning psychiatric medication treatment
  • You have questions about medication options

Testing may not be appropriate or necessary for everyone. Your provider will help determine whether it may be useful in your individual situation.

What Can GeneSight® Results Tell You?

GeneSight® results may provide information about how certain genetic factors can influence the body’s processing of some medications.

Results may help organize certain medications into categories based on genetic information relevant to the test.

However, genetic testing is only one part of treatment planning.

Your provider will also consider:

  • Your current symptoms
  • Your diagnosis or clinical concerns
  • Your treatment history
  • Other medications
  • Medical conditions
  • Potential side effects
  • Your personal preferences
  • Your treatment goals


What GeneSight® Testing Cannot Do

GeneSight® testing cannot:

  • Guarantee that a medication will work
  • Guarantee that you will not experience side effects
  • Diagnose a mental health condition
  • Replace a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
  • Replace your provider’s clinical judgment
  • Predict your mental health future

Treatment decisions should always be made in collaboration with a qualified healthcare professional.

Personalized Medication Conversations

At My Care Clinic, we believe medication decisions should be thoughtful and individualized.

GeneSight® testing, when clinically appropriate, may provide additional information to support conversations between you and your provider.

Our providers consider the complete picture of your mental health and overall well-being rather than relying on a single test result.

Insurance and Cost

Coverage for GeneSight® testing may vary depending on your insurance plan and individual circumstances.

Insurance coverage, eligibility, and out-of-pocket costs are not guaranteed. We encourage you to discuss insurance and payment questions with our team before testing when possible.

Why Choose My Care Clinic?

Personalized Care
Your treatment plan is built around your individual needs.

Thoughtful Decision-Making
We consider multiple factors when discussing medication options.

Comprehensive Evaluation
Genetic testing is considered alongside your symptoms, history, and treatment goals.

Collaborative Treatment
You are involved in conversations about your care.

Ongoing Support
Your treatment plan can be monitored and adjusted as your needs change.

Take the Next Step

If you have questions about psychiatric medications or whether GeneSight® testing may be appropriate for you, our providers can help you understand your options.

Schedule an appointment with My Care Clinic to discuss your treatment needs and explore whether GeneSight® testing may be appropriate for your care.