Because the science of genomics is young and growing rapidly, some of the most clinically useful tests are still proprietary to the laboratory that developed them. As you might expect, the proprietary labs are starting to make the rounds of doctors’ offices, but maintaining a sales force is a big expense. Some of the best labs may not yet have a friendly detail person for you to call on.
Determining how to obtain a sample, choose a laboratory, and interpret test results can be a challenge for physicians. If, for example, you want your patient to have the BRCA 1 or 2 test, you will need to contact Myriad Genetics in Salt Lake City. Conversely, you can order the clopidogrel assay from over a half dozen laboratories. Testing methodology and the number of alleles tested varies at each laboratory. Some tests will require a blood draw, others a buccal swab. How do you choose which lab to work with?
For El Camino Hospital physicians, there is a simple answer; call the Genomic Medicine Institute at 650-962-4577 or consult the physician portal provided by DNA direct. The physician portal provides excellent information, with appropriate references, on each of the 50 tests we have chosen to include. It also includes a listing of the laboratories offering each specific test. Many, but not all tests, may also be available through large commercial labs such as LabCorp or Quest. Because the El Camino Hospital lab works closely with the Genomic Medicine Institute, you can always send patients to the hospital’s draw stations. They can help you choose the appropriate testing laboratory and will send the sample out for you.
Whether you need help ordering a test, have an urgent request, or would simply like more information, the Genomic Medicine Institute can assist you and help expedite the process.
Genomic Medicine Institute
Phone: 650-962-4577
Email: gmi@elcaminohospital.org
We can also connect you to one of our DNA Direct Genetic Counselors, or if you prefer can call them directly at 866-220-3071 between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.