Sanford Imagenetics Achieves Significant Milestone in PGx Testing

In a partnership between Sanford Imagenetics and the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Pharmacogenomics testing for Veterans (PHASER) program has offered 100,000 PGx tests for veterans.  The testing is completed at Sanford Medical Genetics Laboratory in Sioux Falls, S.D.

The program helps clinicians understand how some commonly used over the counter and prescription medications interact with a patient’s genetic makeup. Approximately 90 percent of people have at least one gene change that may affect medication response. By using this information, it can help clinicians develop a treatment plan that may more closely fit a patient’s specific needs. 

“Since this program launched in 2019, we’ve been able to help health care providers determine which medications and dosing works best for a particular patient’s care plan with the fewest side effects,” said Jessica Aguilar, vice president of Sanford Imagenetics. Our team at Sanford Imagenetics is proud to be part of this initiative and continue to better the lives of the patients we serve.”

Some of the medications PGx screens for include, Plavix® (clopidogrel), Lexapro® (escitalopram), Celexa® (citalopram), Advil® (ibuprofen), Paxil® (paroxetine), Zoloft® (sertraline) and Prilosec® (omeprazole).

Patients may consult with their primary care provider for a referral or can schedule an appointment directly by calling (605) 404-4000. The free PGx tests through PHASER are available to any patient with an eligible military status in their medical record (Active Duty, National Guard, Reserves, Retired or Veteran). The free test will be available through 2025.

For more information, visit imagenetics.sanfordhealth.org.