Association between health-service use and multiplex genetic testing

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Health Services Research
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• The rapid identification of genetic variants linked to common diseases is driving the proliferation of multiplex genetic tests.
• These tests provide individuals with information on numerous genetic predispositions, potentially influencing their healthcare-seeking behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether offering multiplex genetic susceptibility testing to healthy adults (aged 25-40) impacts their healthcare utilization.
• To determine if direct-to-consumer genetic testing influences the use of physician visits and medical procedures.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 1,599 insured adults aged 25-40 offered multiplex genetic testing for eight common conditions.
• Healthcare utilization was compared pre- and post-testing across three groups: baseline survey only, website visit only, and completed genetic testing.

Main Results:

• Individuals who opted for genetic testing had higher physician visit rates in the pre-test period compared to other groups.
• No statistically significant differences in healthcare utilization (physician visits, tests, or procedures) were observed among the groups in the post-test period.

Conclusions:

• Multiplex genetic susceptibility testing did not lead to increased healthcare utilization after the test was completed.
• The findings support the safe direct-to-consumer provision of multiplex genetic testing without concerns of inappropriately escalating healthcare service use.