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Frequently Asked Questions
How is the test done?
Genetic testing usually involves taking a sample of body tissue. The type depends on the particular test and may include blood, cells from the lining of the cheek. When you have decided on the testing you required the method of testing will be discussed with you.
How does it work?
When you book an appointment you be sent a link via email or text. Before your appointment follow the link and this will place you in the virtual waiting room. You just need a stable internet connection. No need to download software or create an account. Use a browser on a computer or device with a camera and microphone. All data is encrypted.
Are there limitations of testing?
While sometimes, genetic tests provide reliable and accurate information for people to make decisions, at other times it may not be possible to get a result that is certain. We are each much more than the sum of our genes: our environment can influence our health and development and many health factors are not genetic.
The discovery of a variation in a particular gene may provide some information about the nature of a health condition that a person has, will develop, or for which they may be at increased risk. Rarely can it predict how severe the condition will be, or the age at which symptoms will first start.
The discovery of a variation in a particular gene may provide some information about the nature of a health condition that a person has, will develop, or for which they may be at increased risk. Rarely can it predict how severe the condition will be, or the age at which symptoms will first start.
what do my results mean?
Results from genomic testing can be: Pathogenic variant(s) A varient causing the condition being tested for is found No pathogenic variants are found Variant of Uncertain Significance A variant is found but it is not currently known whether it is harmless, or one that causes a health concern. Incidental Finding When a result shows a paothgenic varient that is unexpected and unrelated to the reason for testing
What about insurance?
There are imporatant potential insurance implications. Your insurance company may cover some testing in some situations. Regardless of whether you or your insurance company pay for the testing, currently in New Zealand insurance companies are legally allowed to ask for and use, applicants’ genetic/genomic test results in underwriting decisions. These results may lead insurers increase premiums or deny cover to applicants.
Are there any risks with testing?
Unexpected family relationships Occasionally, genomic testing may reveal unexpected family relationships. For example, a genomic test may reveal that a couple are closely related or that either the mother or father is not the biological parent of a child. The potential for discrimination Employment in certain professions. This may be relevevant when having predictive/ presymptomatic testing, which provide information about someone’s future health.