If you or someone you know has developmental delays or other unexplained symptoms, genetic testing can often identify the cause – leading to earlier treatment and better management to improve short- and long-term outcomes. With genetic insights, you and your healthcare team can make more informed decisions to help you or your loved one live the healthiest, fullest life possible.

A diagnosis. A community. A path forward.

Close-up of an adult holding a baby's hand, representing early childhood care, genetic testing, and support for families.

Benefits of Genetic Testing

Genetic testing can empower you with information you can act on.

  • Icon representing symptoms associated with genetic conditions.

    Know Your Diagnosis

    Genetic testing can identify the cause of symptoms and provide clarity for families seeking answers.

  • Icon representing patient support and care.

    Guide Your Care

    A genetic diagnosis can help doctors tailor care and connect families with treatment and research opportunities.

  • Icon representing patients, families, and caregivers.

    Access Vital Support

    A diagnosis can connect families with trusted information, support resources, and a community that understands their journey.

  • Icon representing genetic testing and diagnosis.

    Inform Health

    Genetic testing can help individuals and families better understand health risks and make informed decisions about care.

  • Icon representing patient safety and informed healthcare decisions.

    Advance Understanding

    A genetic diagnosis can open doors to research studies, clinical trials, and emerging treatment opportunities.

Pediatric healthcare professional holding a young child, representing compassionate care and the importance of genetic testing for earlier diagnosis.

Who Should Consider Genetic Testing?

WHO IT CAN HELP

Everyone with a genetic disease deserves to have answers. Genetic testing can accelerate the process and is often more accessible than families think, either through insurance or other programs. 

Who Should Consider Genetic Testing? 

Genetic testing can provide insights and knowledge that everyone can benefit from. We especially recommend genetic testing for the following: 

  • Babies and kids who are very ill in the hospital, such as in the NICU or PICU

  • People who have two or more of the following symptoms:

    • Difficulty eating or feeding

    • Problems moving or involuntary movements

    • Difficulty with vision

    • Growth that’s much slower or faster than other children (e.g. height, weight, or head size that is way below or above average)

    • Muscles that are stiff or too floppy

  • People who experience:

    • Autism

    • Delayed learning or development

    • Seizures

    • Birth defects such as a hole in the heart or extra fingers and toes

Pediatric healthcare professional talking with a young patient during a hospital visit, representing personalized care and informed genetic testing decisions.
Pediatric healthcare professional talking with a young patient during a hospital visit, representing personalized care and informed genetic testing decisions.

Previously tested? New advances mean new possibilities.

Genetic testing and science is always advancing. Newer tests may identify genetic changes that older tests could not. If the above symptoms match your or your loved one’s experience, it’s a good idea to discuss genetic testing with your doctor – even if you’ve had testing done before. Talking with your doctor or a genetic counselor can help you decide if updated testing may help.

Diagnosed and still seeking answers? 

Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with a condition, genetic testing can still help to:

  • Explain the exact genetic reason behind your health challenges

  • Allow your healthcare team to create a personalized treatment plan for you

  • Find treatments specifically created for your condition

  • Connect you with a community of people with shared experiences