Informed Consent and Choices
Understanding your pharmacogenetic testing and what it means for you
Understanding the Purpose of Testing
Pharmacogenetic testing analyzes specific genes to help predict how your body may respond to certain medications. The purpose of this test is to provide your healthcare provider with additional information that may assist in selecting the most appropriate medication and dosage for your individual genetic profile.
This testing is designed to complement, not replace, the clinical judgment of your healthcare provider. It is one of many tools that can help guide treatment decisions.
What Your Results Mean
Your test results will indicate how your body is expected to metabolize certain medications based on your genetic makeup. Results are categorized to help your healthcare provider understand whether a medication may be effective, require dosage adjustments, or may not be suitable for you.
Results should be reviewed and interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. Personalized Prescribing assigns an expert psychopharmacist to each patient to help explain results and provide recommendations to your treating clinician.
Limitations of Testing
It is important to understand the following limitations of pharmacogenetic testing:
- Pharmacogenetic testing does not diagnose any disease or medical condition.
- Test results do not guarantee the effectiveness of any particular medication.
- Genetic factors are only one component that influences drug response. Other factors such as age, weight, diet, other medications, organ function, and overall health also play a significant role.
- Scientific understanding of gene-drug interactions is continually evolving, and new evidence may change interpretations over time.
- Results are based on current scientific knowledge and validated gene-drug interactions as established by international pharmacogenetics consortia.
Consent to Proceed
By proceeding with pharmacogenetic testing through Personalized Prescribing Inc., you acknowledge that:
- You have been informed of the purpose, benefits, and limitations of pharmacogenetic testing.
- You understand that test results will be shared with your designated healthcare provider(s) to assist in treatment decisions.
- You voluntarily consent to the collection of a DNA sample for the purpose of pharmacogenetic analysis.
- You understand that you may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting Personalized Prescribing Inc.
- You understand that withdrawal of consent does not affect the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal.
Privacy and Data Usage
Personalized Prescribing Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your genetic information. Your data is handled in accordance with Canada's Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act (2017).
Your genetic information will be:
- Stored securely in encrypted, firewalled databases.
- Anonymized using unique Sample IDs that separate personal identifiers from DNA samples.
- Shared only with your designated healthcare provider(s) as authorized by your consent.
- Potentially used in de-identified, aggregate form for internal research and quality improvement purposes.
- Retained for 25 years in accordance with CLIA/CAP standards, unless you request earlier deletion.
You may request the deletion of your genetic data at any time. Removal will occur within seven business days of the request.
Professional Medical Disclaimer
The information provided by Personalized Prescribing Inc. through pharmacogenetic testing is intended to support, not replace, the relationship between a patient and their healthcare provider. All treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Pharmacogenetic test results are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of information obtained through genetic testing.
Questions About Consent?
Personalized Prescribing Inc.
175 West Beaver Creek Road Unit 24
Richmond Hill, ON L4B3M1
Phone: 1-844-943-0210
Email: info@personalizedprescribing.com