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Pharmacogenomics: Shaping the future of prescribing

Genetic variations can affect drug metabolism, yet many still rely on a trial-and-error approach to dosing. This can lead to possible ineffective therapy response and potential adverse drug reactions (ADRs). 

In the US, more than 29 million ADRs from various causes that may include PGx factors were reported from 2011 to 2024, contributing to thousands of deaths and billions in avoidable costs.1,2

 

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) testing matches genetics with drug metabolism, helping to improve outcomes and deliver potential financial impact

By aligning prescriptions to each patient’s genetic profile, PGx helps clinicians move beyond trial-and-error prescribing to help achieve safer, more effective care.

The evidence is clear

Over 20% of patients take multiple medications, many 5 or more1

>90% of patients carry at least 1 clinically actionable genetic variant2

When combined with medication management services, PGx testing has been shown to drive up to a $7,000 reduction in medical costs per patient and a potential $37M in systemwide savings over a 32-month period studied3

Insights from a single blood test with Quest Diagnostics can apply to PGx applications across specialties, from cardiology to psychiatry, oncology, and beyond

Because PGx testing analyzes germline DNA, the results remain valid for life

As health systems look to improve outcomes while containing costs, PGx represents an enterprise-ready solution with both clinical and financial impact

“Getting patients on the right dose of the optimal drug right off the bat improves their experience and saves health systems and health plans the cost of trial and error.”

– Kristy Bouvier, Quest Diagnostics

Hear from our experts

In a recent episode of the award-winning DNA Today podcast, Quest Diagnostics experts Kristy Bouvier and Kathleen O’Brien share how PGx can be applied in practice.

Key insights include the following: 

  • Reducing ADRs and preventable costs across populations
  • Managing polypharmacy and prioritizing high-risk cohorts
  • Turning genomic guidance into action with Coriell Life Sciences dynamic reporting
  • Building adoption with support from genomic specialists, laboratory directors, and clinicians
  • Measuring ROI in terms of adherence, readmissions, and total cost of care

Listen now to hear how PGx is reshaping prescribing across health systems.

“One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to prescribing. Pharmacogenetic testing provides a more complete clinical picture, identifying genetic factors that may increase toxicity or decrease efficacy—and helping clinicians tailor treatment to the individual patient.”

- Kathleen O’Brien, Quest Diagnostics

With Quest, deliver PGx insights at scale

Quest PGx solutions move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach by integrating seamlessly with leading EHR systems and supporting enterprise-wide medication management. Backed by expert genomic specialists, laboratory directors, and clinicians, Quest provides the scale and guidance health systems need to incorporate PGx into everyday care—empowering safer prescribing and stronger system performance across the enterprise.

Learn more

References

  1. SingleCare. The checkup: prescription drug statistics 2025. Updated February 4, 2025. Accessed August 2025. 
https://www.singlecare.com/blog/news/prescription-drug-statistics
  2. Hockings JK, Pasternak AL, Erwin AL, et al. Pharmacogenomics: an evolving clinical tool for precision therapeutics. Cleve Clin J Med. 2020;87(2):91-99. doi:10.3949/ccjm.87a.19073
  3. Jarvis JP, Patel S, Keshishian A, et al. Pharmacogenomics for improved outcomes and decreased costs in health care. J Pers Med. 2022;12(3):421. doi:10.3390/jpm12030421

Listen to the entire podcast episode

Listen here

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Quest® is the brand name used for services offered by Quest Diagnostics Incorporated and its affiliated companies. Quest Diagnostics Incorporated and certain affiliates are CLIA-certified laboratories that provide HIPAA-covered services.  Other affiliates operated under the Quest® brand, such as Quest Consumer Inc., do not provide HIPAA-covered services. 

 

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