Understanding the root cause of health conditions is crucial for effective management and informed decision-making. When it comes to kidney health, particularly conditions like Alport syndrome, genetic factors often play a significant role. Natera’s Renasight emerges as a powerful genetic test designed to identify the genetic underpinnings of Alport syndrome and other chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Furthermore, recognizing the financial concerns that can accompany genetic testing, Natera offers a compassionate care program, ensuring that vital genetic insights are accessible to those who need them most.
Renasight is a comprehensive genetic test analyzing 385 genes associated with CKD, including those specifically linked to Alport syndrome. Often, Alport syndrome goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed, making genetic testing indispensable for achieving an early and accurate diagnosis.¹ Utilizing a simple, non-invasive blood or saliva sample, Renasight provides a pathway to deeper understanding of your kidney health.
Unlocking the Benefits of Renasight Genetic Testing
The knowledge gained from Renasight genetic testing empowers both patients and physicians to navigate healthcare decisions with greater confidence. Understanding the genetic basis of kidney disease opens doors to more personalized and effective care strategies.
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Pinpoint the Cause: Renasight helps identify the underlying genetic cause of kidney disease. This precise identification can be instrumental in tailoring treatment plans and, in certain instances, slowing down the progression of the disease.²
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Personalized Care Insights: Genetic insights from Renasight inform personalized care options. This includes guidance on medication choices, proactive early treatment interventions, and timely referrals to specialized healthcare professionals when necessary.
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Empower Family Education: Genetic testing results can be pivotal in educating family members about their potential risks. Understanding family history and genetic predispositions allows for informed decisions regarding testing options and the advantages of earlier diagnosis for at-risk individuals.
Click here to download a patient brochure for more detailed information
Getting Started with Renasight: A Simple Process
Initiating Renasight genetic testing is designed to be straightforward and patient-centric. Natera streamlines the process to ensure ease of access and convenience.
Request Your Renasight Test Kit
The first step is to request a Renasight test kit to be conveniently delivered to your home within 5-7 business days.
CLICK HERE to request a Renasight kit for home delivery. Please note that delivery to PO Boxes is not possible.
Physician Order and Support
While you can initiate the kit request, Renasight requires a physician’s order. It’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider whether Renasight is the right genetic test for your situation. For any questions or assistance, you or your physician can contact Natera directly at +1.650.425.4005.
Simple Saliva Sample Collection
The Renasight kit includes everything needed for easy saliva sample collection using a cheek swab. Detailed instructions are provided within the kit, along with a prepaid envelope for convenient sample return. If a blood sample is preferred, Natera offers a complimentary at-home mobile phlebotomy service, which can be scheduled by calling +1.650.425.4005.
Reviewing Results and Genetic Counseling
Renasight results are typically available within approximately 3 weeks. These results should be reviewed and discussed with your healthcare provider to understand their implications for your health management. To further support patients, Renasight provides a complimentary information session with a board-certified genetic counselor. This session offers an opportunity to address any questions about your results and gain deeper insights.
Addressing Common Questions: Renasight FAQs
Is genetic testing recommended for Alport syndrome?
Yes. International expert guidelines from 2019 emphasize the importance of genetic testing in diagnosing Alport syndrome.³
Can I learn more about 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 address any preliminary questions you may have.
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 answer any questions that arise after your discussion with your physician.
What are the implications of a positive Renasight result?
A positive Renasight result, indicating Alport syndrome, allows your doctor to tailor your treatment plan. Early interventions and therapies may be introduced, potentially delaying the progression to dialysis and improving overall life expectancy.⁴ Furthermore, positive results have important implications for biological family members, highlighting potential inherited risks and the importance of family testing. Genetic counseling is crucial to understand the chances of family members having the same genetic condition.
Will my insurance cover Renasight?
Natera welcomes all insurance plans and strives to minimize out-of-pocket costs for patients. For cost transparency, Natera provides an insurance estimate. If the estimated patient responsibility exceeds $349, Natera will contact you to discuss discounted self-pay options. For cost estimate inquiries, contact [email protected] or call +1.650.425.4005.
Natera’s Compassionate Care Program: Ensuring Access to Genetic Testing
Natera is committed to making genetic testing accessible through its compassionate care program. Eligibility for this program is proactively assessed. Qualifying individuals may have reduced out-of-pocket costs, ranging from $0-$149, based on federal income criteria and household size. This program underscores Natera’s commitment to patient-centric care, ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to essential genetic insights.
What about government insurance or no insurance?
For patients with government insurance such as Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare, Natera typically expects no out-of-pocket expenses. The compassionate care program also extends support to eligible individuals, further minimizing financial burdens.
How can my family members be tested for Alport syndrome?
If you or a family member has a positive genetic result, there’s up to a 50% chance of sharing the same genetic mutation, increasing the risk of Alport syndrome. Natera offers family testing options to assess risk within families.
To learn more about the importance of family testing, click here.
Renasight, coupled with Natera’s compassionate care program, represents a significant advancement in accessible genetic testing for kidney health. By providing comprehensive genetic insights and addressing financial concerns, Natera empowers individuals and families to proactively manage their health and make informed decisions about their care.
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.
