Question 1

What's this test for?

Accepted Answer

This test is ideal if you're dealing with a genetic condition that hasn't been diagnosed through other testing, or if you have a family history of an unexplained early-onset disorder. It looks at the protein-coding parts of the genome in you and a family member together, which helps pinpoint changes that may be causing symptoms. It's especially useful when previous genetic tests came back inconclusive or when a condition seems to run in the family but the cause is unclear.

Question 2

What happens after I get my results?

Accepted Answer

Your results will be available in your account, with an explanation of what each finding means. Because this is complex genetic information, the report will outline any identified gene changes and what they may mean for you and your family member's health going forward. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and if additional family members are tested later, you can use the trends feature to keep a record of results over time. If a serious finding comes up, consider next steps like additional targeted testing or connecting with a genetic counseling resource.

Question 3

What's included in this test?

Accepted Answer

This test includes high-quality whole exome sequencing of an index patient and one family member, along with whole exome deletion/duplication analysis for both individuals. It compares the protein-coding regions of the genome, called the exome, between the two related people, since analyzing them together makes it much easier to spot disease-causing changes that are new (de novo) or shared within the family. It also checks for missing or extra copies of gene segments, a separate type of genetic change that regular sequencing can miss, giving a much fuller picture than sequencing one person alone.

Question 4

How can I naturally support my overall health while awaiting genetic answers?

Accepted Answer

While a genetic test result itself can't be changed by lifestyle, taking care of your general health can help your body manage symptoms while you wait for or process results. Eating a balanced diet, staying active as your condition allows, getting consistent sleep, and managing stress all support your overall wellbeing. If you have a diagnosed condition already, working within any activity or dietary guidance you've received for that specific condition is also helpful.

Question 5

When will I get my results?

Accepted Answer

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is received at the lab, though complex genetic analyses like this one can occasionally take a bit longer. You'll be notified as soon as your report is ready in your account. Because this test involves detailed sequencing and analysis of two people, allow the full window rather than expecting same-day turnaround.

Question 6

Who should consider this test?

Accepted Answer

This test is a good fit for people with a complex or unclear genetic disorder that hasn't been pinned down by other tests, or those with a genetically diverse condition that could stem from many different genes. It's also worth considering if you've had previous genetic testing that came back without answers, or if there's a suspected inherited condition but no specific single-gene test exists for it. Testing you alongside a family member increases the chance of finding the true cause.

Question 7

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Accepted Answer

Signs that this test could help include unexplained developmental delays, unusual physical features present from birth, multiple health issues that don't fit a single known diagnosis, or a strong family pattern of a condition without a confirmed genetic cause. Early-onset conditions that appeared in childhood and remain unexplained are also good candidates. If you've been told your case is medically puzzling or atypical, this broader test can help find answers standard tests missed.

Question 8

What is whole exome sequencing and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Whole exome sequencing reads the parts of your DNA that actually code for proteins, which make up about 1% of your whole genome but hold roughly 85% of known disease-causing changes. Because it covers around 20,000 genes at once instead of testing one gene at a time, it's far more efficient for finding an answer when many different genes could be responsible for a condition. This matters because it can shorten what's sometimes called a diagnostic odyssey, giving families answers faster.

Question 9

How often should I retest?

Accepted Answer

Whole exome sequencing is generally a one-time test since your DNA sequence doesn't change over time. Retesting isn't usually needed unless new family members need to be analyzed to clarify inheritance patterns, or unless testing technology and gene knowledge has advanced significantly since your original test and unresolved symptoms remain. If your first test didn't identify a clear cause, revisiting the analysis a few years later can sometimes yield new answers as more genes become linked to diseases.

Question 10

What should I do if my results identify a genetic change?

Accepted Answer

If your report identifies a disease-related gene change, start by reading the full explanation in your report to understand what that gene does and how the change may affect health. Consider sharing the finding with family members who could also carry it, since this can affect their own health screening decisions. Keep the report on file for any future medical testing or evaluations, and consider genetic counseling resources to help interpret how the finding applies to family planning or long-term health management.

Question 11

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

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?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 17

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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.

Whole Exome Family Duo Genetic Test