Pharmacogenomics FAQs

A pharmacogenomic test is a type of genetic test that evaluates how your body processes over 120 commonly prescribed drugs, including antidepressants, antihypertensives and pain medications. Your body might metabolize certain types of drugs more quickly, causing you to need a higher dose. If you process a drug more slowly, your dose might need to be reduced or eliminated. Certain gene variants can indicate a much higher risk of serious side effects and an alternate drug class can be considered.  If you process a drug normally, you should do well with an average dose.  

Pharmacogenomic testing for gene mutations is done by swabbing your mouth for saliva. The saliva sample is then sent to a special lab for genetic testing. Results usually take a few weeks to come back.

The identification of genetic mutations means that you might be at risk of metabolizing certain drugs differently. Your provider will use your results to increase or decrease your dosage, or may recommend that you completely avoid certain types of drugs to reduce your risk of having side effects. 

In general, your primary care or prescribing provider will be able to interpret your pharmacogenomics results and make the appropriate changes to your prescriptions. It’s not necessary for you to see a genetic counselor or someone with specialized training in dealing with the abnormal mutations.

The out-of-pocket cost for the test is $295.

Your health insurance plan may cover the costs of this test when it's recommended by a doctor. Because of the uniqueness of this test, we still recommend that you call your insurance company to be sure, since specific plans and their coverage can vary.

Yes. Regardless of insurance status, Tempus helps provide access to its tests for U.S.-based patients in financial need. You can complete the financial assistance application online at access.tempus.com or by calling the Tempus support team at 1-800-739-4137. You may contact billing@tempus.com if you're concerned about out-of-pocket costs and want to discuss your options.

No. Once the testing has been submitted to insurance, you must use insurance coverage. You can't decide to use self-pay at that point, even if it's the less expensive option.