Genetic testing is now being used to identify what medications may be more acceptable or contraindicated for patients based upon their genetic map. There are multiple tests and labs that have been developed and marketed to providers to potentially aid in medication management choices. There are some limitations with the testing. The most important being that they predict metabolism and bioavailability of medications but they do not predict a patient’s clinical response (improvement in mental health) to a particular medication. Genetic testing is most commonly performed using buccal swabs. The provider will swab the patient’s oral cavity and then send the specimen to the lab for processing via UPS or FedEx.
Introduction and Alignment Laboratory tests should be ordered or reviewed for every mental health patient. Many of the patients that come to you will have seen their primary care doctors within the past year. It is acceptable for you to have the patient sign a release of information (ROI) so that you can request their […]
