The Price Tag of Genetic Testing with Michelle Glaze

The price tag of genetic testing can depend upon several factors, like the type of test, service provider, and health insurer involved. Although some insurers cover genetic testing, others do not. As a result, some interested patients may miss out because of this financial element. In recent years, however, industry and non-profit-led initiatives have emerged to make testing more readily available.

One example is the Inherited Retinal Disease Program. This no-charge genetic testing is available to people in the United States and Canada who are suspected of having an IRD or are at risk. The program provides testing with the Invitae Inherited Retinal Disorders Panel, which analyzes 330 relevant genes, and participants are eligible for genetic counseling made available by Invitae.

Similarly, the My Retina Tracker Genetic Testing Program makes it possible for eye care professionals in the United States to order no-cost genetic testing and genetic counseling for patients who have been clinically diagnosed with an IRD. This partnership between the Foundation Fighting Blindness, InformedDNA, and Blueprint Genetics uses a 351 gene panel.

Participants face no out-of-pocket costs for the test or counseling, and there is no charge to their insurance company, either. However, participants are responsible for the cost of any consultation or eye exams that are needed beforehand.