FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between myGenome Standard and myGenome Premium?

myGenome Standard:

  • For anyone who wants to be proactive about their health
    Insights on 80+ genes associated with 200+ conditions, including 20+ highly actionable conditions and 40+ carrier
    conditions
    Expert curated information on 150+ drug sensitivities (aka Pharmacogenomics or PGx)
    Information on 50+ traits and ancestry
    Veritas Risk Section on lower-impact genetic findings that contribute to 15 common diseases whose risk can
    be minimized proactively by lifestyle changes
    Review of actionable medical findings with a genetic counselor

myGenome Premium:

  • For anyone who wants to dive even deeper into their cancer and cardiovascular risks, and carrier conditions
  • Insights on 400+ genes associated with 20+ highly actionable conditions and 125 genes associated with 200+
    carrier conditions
  • Plus all of myGenome Standard

When will I get my myGenome report?

  • Your myGenome report will take on average 12 weeks starting from the date our lab receives a viable sample and validates the order
  • Your account portal allows you and your physician to check in on your report status to see where your sample is in the process
  • Reports can be and normally are distributed to both the customer and the customer’s authorizing physician or healthcare provider
  • It is our normal practice to release a patient’s report to their physician 72 hours before they get a copy as this time lag allows the doctor to discuss any sensitive findings with you before you see them if they/you wish

What is the turnaround time for each test?

  • The duration is on average 12 weeks for myGenome tests

Can I get my raw data file?

  • Yes, Veritas offers raw data in the form of a Variant Call File (VCF, a specific format of a text file used in bioinformatics for storing gene sequence variations) for certain tests
  • To receive this file you can place an order after your report is released by emailing Customer Support at support@veritasgenetics.com
  • The VCF costs $99 and is available to be delivered 5 to 7 days after your order is placed. Pricing is subject to change.

Why do I need a doctor to authorize the myGenome test?

It is our policy that all tests require a physician to authorize the test, because:

  • A physician can help guide you to better understand and review your test results.
  • Our physician can assist you in making medical and lifestyle decisions based on your myGenome report.
  • It is important for your doctor to be aware so he/she can help you make informed medical decisions for your future.
  • If you don’t have a physician, prefer not to involve your physician/healthcare provider, or if your provider is not responsive/ willing to sign off, we offer access to third party physicians to streamline ordering and increase privacy, for an additional fee.

Why myGenome?

  • For anyone who wants to be proactive about their health
  • Insights on 59 highly actionable conditions and 24 carrier conditions
  • Genetic results informing drug sensitivities
    Information on 50+ traits and ancestry
  • NEW Veritas Risk Section on lower-impact genetic findings that contribute to 15 common diseases whose risk can be minimized proactively by lifestyle changes
  • Review of actionable medical findings with a genetic counselor

Can I change my doctor?

  • Yes, please call Customer Support to receive the proper form.

What is myGenome with Diagnostic Interpretation (myGenomeDx)?

  • myGenome with Diagnostic Interpretation (myGenomeDx) is a genetic test that utilizes whole genome sequencing (WGS) with diagnostic interpretation to help identify a condition suspected to have a genetic cause.
  • Additionally, if requested, the test can include genetic results informing drug sensitivities and, for adults, a full myGenome report.

Who is myGenomeDx for?

  • myGenome with Diagnostic Interpretation is for patients with a complex medical history or symptoms suggestive of a genetic condition, even if other genetic tests have shown a negative result.

How do I order myGenomeDx?

  • myGenome Diagnostic orders must be initiated by a physician.
  • Please contact Customer Support for further information for you and your doctor
  • If you don’t have a physician, prefer not to involve your physician/healthcare provider, or if your provider is not responsive/willing to sign off, we offer access to third party physicians to streamline ordering and increase privacy, for an additional fee.

How do I upgrade from myGenome to myGenomeDx?

  • Please call Customer Support for assistance

Does myGenome test for specific genes?

  • We do not test for specific variants
  • We test for the most actionable genes put forth by the ACMG59. ACMG refers to a list of 59 genes deemed medically actionable by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (Kalia, 2017 PMID 27854360).
  • If you have a common variant in your genome, we will find it
  • If you are searching for a specific gene or variant, consult with a Genetic Counselor before you purchase the test
  • Please reference our resources page for the specific list of genes tested for in myGenome: https://www.veritasgenetics.com/ mygenome/technical

Does my data get deleted or is it saved by Veritas Genetics?

  • Your data is encrypted in our cloud once the DNA sample has been sequenced
  • We do not sell this information to 3rd parties without your consent

How does Veritas ensure my data is safe?

  • Veritas adheres to US law for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to protect confidentiality
  • Veritas also adheres to European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and is in the process to applying this protection for consumers in the US. This means, for example, that you are able to update data and contact consents you have provided when placing your order or subsequently.
  • If you are ordering through the website, your report is only given to you and your primary care physician
  • If you decide you want us to remove this information from our encrypted cloud, we have a form that we will ask you to sign to authorize Veritas to remove this record.
  • It is Veritas Genetics’ policy that genomic data, including VCF (variant call file) and BAM, be kept for 10 years for regulatory and legal archival purposes and no other use.
  • If you request to have your data destroyed, it will NOT be used for research; however, it remains securely filed for 10 years as stated above.
  • Be aware that you will not be eligible for any future updates in our services if you have requested to destroy your records.
  • If you want to have your data removed from our system, please call Customer Support for assistance

I am a physician, may I authorize my own test?

  • AMA discourages physician self orders however it is not disallowed. Thus Veritas may accept self ordered tests.
  • Veritas also highly discourages customers from using relatives who are physicians for their test order

Where am I able to order a myGenome test from?

  • Due to state regulations, myGenome may not be available for ordering in your state. We are unable to provide myGenome outside of the US and in the following states: NY, AK, WA and Washington DC.

What is the regulatory status of the myGenome test and other tests performed by the company?

  • MyGenome sequencing and other genetic tests are performed in the Veritas Genetics CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvements Amendment)-certified and CAP (College of American Pathologists)-accredited Clinical Services Laboratory and the information from such tests is generated by licensed personnel using analytically validated processes. As is the case with other Laboratory Developed Tests, such tests have not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.