NEW YORK – Kroger Health has partnered with Myriad Genetics to launch a pilot program involving the GeneSight pharmacogenetic test for personalizing depression treatments.
Within this pilot, 500 Kroger pharmacies in five states will provide information about GeneSight PGx testing to members who have failed one or more antidepressant treatments. These members will receive information about testing through their pharmacists or in the mail. Those interested will be directed to speak to their healthcare provider to determining if testing is appropriate.
GeneSight analyzes 12 genes involved in people's ability to process 56 drugs for depression.
"The goals of the program are to improve outcomes for patients, improve productivity of Kroger employees, and lower overall costs to the health plan," according to a statement from Kroger Health. According to the company, the GeneSight pilot is in line with its aim to deliver personalized healthcare solutions to its 60 million customers through health and wellness initiatives.
"Our partnership with Kroger Health centers on a shared vision to help more people with depression get well sooner," Chip Parkinson, executive VP of payer markets and reimbursement at Myriad, said in a statement.