Getting a complete picture of your health is crucial, especially when it comes to understanding potential genetic predispositions to conditions like Alport syndrome. Natera’s Renasight genetic test offers valuable insights, and the Natera Compassionate Care Program is designed to ensure that financial concerns don’t become a barrier to accessing this important test.
Renasight is a genetic test specifically designed to identify the genetic causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD), including Alport syndrome. Early and accurate diagnosis of Alport syndrome is vital, as it is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.¹ This non-invasive test, utilizing either a blood or saliva sample, analyzes 385 genes linked to CKD, providing comprehensive genetic information.
The Benefits of Renasight Genetic Testing
Understanding the genetic underpinnings of kidney disease empowers both patients and physicians to make more informed healthcare decisions. Renasight offers several key benefits:
- Identify the Root Cause: Genetic testing can pinpoint the underlying genetic cause of kidney disease, which in some instances, may help in slowing its progression.²
- Personalized Care: The insights gained from Renasight can guide personalized care strategies. This includes medication choices, proactive treatment plans, and referrals to specialized healthcare professionals.
- Family Education and Risk Assessment: Genetic information is crucial for family members. Renasight results can educate family members about their potential risk, available testing options, and the advantages of early diagnosis.
Click here to download a patient brochure
Accessing Renasight and the Compassionate Care Program
Starting the process is straightforward:
1. Request a Renasight Test Kit:
You can easily request a Renasight kit to be delivered directly to your home within 5-7 business days. CLICK HERE to request a Renasight kit. Please note that delivery to PO Boxes is not possible.
2. Physician Order Submission:
Renasight requires a physician’s order. Discuss with your healthcare provider whether Renasight is appropriate for you. For any questions, you or your physician can contact +1.650.425.4005.
3. Provide a Sample:
The kit includes detailed instructions for collecting a simple saliva sample using a cheek swab. A prepaid envelope is provided for easy sample return. If a blood sample is preferred, call +1.650.425.4005 to arrange a complimentary at-home mobile phlebotomy service.
4. Review Results with Your Healthcare Provider:
Renasight results are typically available in approximately 3 weeks. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your provider to discuss your results and understand their implications. Natera also offers a complimentary consultation with a board-certified genetic counselor to address any questions you may have about your results.
Understanding the Natera Compassionate Care Program
Cost can be a significant concern when considering genetic testing. Natera addresses this through the Compassionate Care Program, ensuring affordability and access to Renasight.
- Financial Assistance: Natera proactively assesses eligibility for the Compassionate Care Program. Eligible individuals may qualify for reduced out-of-pocket costs, ranging from $0-$149, based on federal income guidelines and household size. This program is designed to make genetic testing accessible to a wider population, regardless of their financial situation.
- Insurance Coverage: Natera welcomes all insurance plans. For most patients with insurance, out-of-pocket expenses are minimal to non-existent. To prevent unexpected costs, Natera provides an insurance estimate. If the estimated cost exceeds $349, Natera will contact you to discuss a discounted self-pay cash option.
- Government Insurance: For individuals with government insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare, Natera typically expects no out-of-pocket expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renasight and the Compassionate Care Program
- Is genetic testing recommended for Alport syndrome? Yes. Expert consensus guidelines recommend genetic testing for diagnosing Alport syndrome.³
- Can I discuss Renasight before my doctor orders it? Absolutely. You can schedule a complimentary information session with a Natera board-certified genetic counselor to discuss Renasight and the Compassionate Care Program before involving your physician.
- What if I need help understanding my Renasight results? Natera provides a complimentary information session with a board-certified genetic counselor to review your results and discuss next steps, in addition to your physician’s consultation.
- What are the implications of a positive result? A positive Renasight result can inform treatment management, potentially leading to earlier intervention and improved outcomes.⁴ It also has important implications for family members, highlighting the need for family testing to assess their risk.
- How does the Compassionate Care Program work with insurance? The Natera Compassionate Care Program is designed to provide financial assistance regardless of insurance status, offering reduced costs for eligible patients. Natera also works to minimize out-of-pocket costs for insured patients and offers options for those with government insurance or no insurance.
- How can I get a cost estimate? Contact [email protected] or call +1.650.425.4005 to request a cost estimate and discuss eligibility for the Natera Compassionate Care Program.
- How can my family members get tested for Alport syndrome? Family testing is crucial. If you have a positive result, your family members may have an increased risk. Learn more about family testing here.
The Natera Compassionate Care Program and Renasight genetic testing together provide a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing kidney health, ensuring that genetic insights are accessible to those who need them.
References:
- https://www.alportsyndrome.org/about-alport-syndrome/top-5-things-for-medical-professionals
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26908832/
- Savige J., Ariani F., Mari F, et al. Expert consensus guidelines for the genetic diagnosis of Alport syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol. 2019;34(7):1175–1189
- Gross O., Licht C., Anders H.J, et al. Early angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition in Alport syndrome delays renal failure and improves life expectancy. Kidney Int. 2012;81(5):494–501.
