What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're already diagnosed with hepatitis C and need to figure out which strain, or genotype, of the virus you have. Knowing your genotype is a key step before starting treatment, since some medications only work well against certain hepatitis C genotypes. This test helps if you have a confirmed hepatitis C viral load and are preparing to start or plan antiviral therapy.

What's included in this test?

This test identifies which hepatitis C genotype (strain) is present in your blood, since different genotypes respond differently to specific antiviral medications. Knowing the exact genotype helps determine the most effective and shortest course of treatment for you, avoiding trial-and-error with medications that won't work against your particular strain.

What happens after I get my results?

Your genotype result will appear in your account along with an explanation of what it means. If your genotype is identified, the next step is typically discussing appropriate treatment options based on that specific strain; if your viral load was too low for genotyping, retesting when levels rise may be suggested. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and you'll be able to track this and any future related results using the trends feature.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who has already tested positive for hepatitis C with a viral load of 2000 IU/mL or higher and is preparing for antiviral treatment should consider this test. It's especially important if you and a prior care team are deciding between different direct-acting antiviral medications, since the right choice depends heavily on your genotype. This is not a general screening test — it's a follow-up step after an active hepatitis C infection has already been confirmed.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Hepatitis C often causes no obvious symptoms early on, so this test isn't based on symptoms but on a prior positive hepatitis C diagnosis. If you've experienced unexplained fatigue, dark urine, yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice), joint pain, or abdominal discomfort and have since tested positive for hepatitis C, genotyping becomes a relevant next step. The test itself is ordered after infection is confirmed, not based on symptoms alone.

What is a hepatitis C genotype and why does it matter?

A hepatitis C genotype is essentially the specific genetic "version" of the virus that has infected you — there are several major types numbered 1 through 6, plus subtypes. It matters because different genotypes respond differently to available antiviral medications, so identifying yours helps match you to a treatment plan expected to work best and fastest. Some genotypes are more common in certain regions or populations, but only a lab test can tell you which one you actually have.

How often should I retest?

Genotyping is generally a one-time test since your hepatitis C genotype doesn't change over the course of infection. You typically wouldn't need to retest for genotype unless you were reinfected with hepatitis C after being cured, since a new infection could involve a different strain. Your viral load, on the other hand, may be retested more frequently to track treatment response.

What should I do if my results are inconclusive?

If your viral load was below the 2000 IU/mL threshold required for this test, your sample may not yield a clear genotype result. In that case, waiting until your viral load rises or retesting at a later point may be necessary to get an accurate genotype. Keep track of your viral load results over time using the trends feature so you know when retesting makes sense.

What causes different hepatitis C genotypes to develop?

Hepatitis C genotypes reflect genetic variations that developed as the virus evolved and spread through different populations and regions over time, not something caused by your behavior or health choices. Genotype 1 is the most common in the United States, but which one you carry simply depends on how and where you were originally exposed to the virus. Your genotype doesn't change based on lifestyle, diet, or treatment history prior to being cured.

How can I support my liver health while managing hepatitis C?

While waiting for treatment decisions, avoiding alcohol entirely is one of the most important steps since it can accelerate liver damage in people with hepatitis C. Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding unnecessary medications that stress the liver (check labels for acetaminophen amounts) can also help. Staying hydrated and getting regular movement supports overall liver function, but these steps support your health alongside treatment — they don't replace antiviral therapy.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hepatitis C Genotype Test - Guide Treatment Choice

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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