VA Pharmacogenomics program offers opportunity for safer, more effective medication therapy

The pharmacogenomics testing for veterans (PHASER) program gives you the opportunity to work with VA providers on determining which medications are most effective for you based on your genetics, and it only requires one blood test.

What is the PHASER program and how does it benefit me?

The PHASER program supports free PGx testing for Veterans. PGx testing under the PHASER program can help reduce medication trial and error and hospitalizations caused by adverse reactions to medicines. The PHASER program can be utilized within multiple areas of care, including mental health, pain management, infectious disease, oncology, cardiology, gastroenterology, transplant specialty (immunology), and more with continuous expansion into other specialties and medications.

What is Pharmacogenomics (PGx) and how do I pronounce it?

Pharmacogenomics (PGx), pronounced far-ma-CO-gen-o-MIX, uses information from genes to assist in understanding how a person responds to medicines. Genes are part of DNA that provides instructions on how the body develops and functions. Because people have differences in their genes, they may respond to medicines differently.

What is PGx testing?

PGx testing is a type of genetic testing that focuses on how your body processes or responds to medicines. Along with other medical information, PGx test results help providers determine if there is a better type of medication or dose for an individual. 

Will PGx testing inform me of my risk for any diseases?

The PGx test may identify an increased risk for certain, uncommon, health conditions that were passed down to you from your parents. In this case, you and your provider will be informed, and your provider will talk to you about what (if any) next steps are recommended.

What are the limitations of PGx testing?

Genetics illuminates only part of a person’s story. Other considerations like age, overall health, other medicines, and body size also play a role in how you respond to medication.

Is there harm associated with PGx testing?

A blood draw is all you need to have PGx testing done. Like other tests that require blood draws, PGx testing’s risk is low. 

Is PGx testing available to me?[BSJV1] 

Currently, Veterans who receive health care at Cincinnati VAMC and other participating VA facilities, can get PGx testing done. Talk to your VA provider(s) about PGx testing. They will explain the test, answer any questions you or your caregiver have, and if you are interested in moving forward, your provider will order the test for you. 

How do I get the test done?

PGx testing requires a blood draw, which you can get done at the VA.

How long does it take to receive my results?

It may take up to 2 weeks for results to be available for you and your provider.  You will receive an easy to read report that you can discuss with your provider(s) to see if changes are necessary.  Do not change any medications prior to talking to your provider(s).

Next steps

Veterans interested in the PHASER program should contact their primary care provider to discuss PGx testing.

For more information about the PHASER program and PGx testing, click here.