Natera

Natera is a genetics testing company that was founded in 2004, in San Carlos, California. Since its foundation, it’s performed well over 2,000,000 cell-free DNA tests. Operating in 90 countries worldwide, its scientists work continuously to improve their understanding of DNA in order to help change people’s lives for the better.

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    With a well-established and respected position in the industry, you might find that putting your trust in Natera for DNA testing is a good option.

    The tests at Natera focus on three key areas: women’s health, cancer, and organ transplantation.

    Its key ambition is to use modern technology to improve the way diseases are managed across the world.

    Natera Features

    • Residual Disease Testing
    • Transplant Assessment
    • Advanced Carrier Screening
    • Non-invasive Prenatal Testing
    • Hereditary Cancer Risk Testing
    • Single-gene Screening
    • Miscarriage Testing
    • Preimplantation Genetics
    • Remote Testing Services (During COVID-19)

    Natera Pros and Cons

    Pros

    • Many tests can be taken from home, reducing health risks during COVID-19
    • In some cases, free information sessions with genetics counselors are available before and after testing
    • Turn around time for kidney sample testing is fast
    • Results from miscarriage testing can be obtained from 99% tests
    • Preimplantation tests are proven to increase the chance of IVF success

    Cons

    • Turn around time for some tests are slower than its competitors
    • Some tests can’t be taken at home, increasing health risks during COVID-19
    • Not everyone qualifies for payment plans

    What will the test results show?

    The kidney transplant test results will show two key things. Firstly, the ‘normal state’ of the kidney will be established. Any new findings will be measured against these results to clarify issues that might appear. Secondly, a way to track your kidney’s ‘baseline’ over time. This information will reveal the ongoing health status of your new kidney.

    Residual tests aim to find any trace of disease or reappearance in solid tumors. You’ll find out if additional chemotherapy is needed, and possibly avoid unnecessary treatment.

    Detecting any issues early on will greatly improve the likely outcome of further treatment.

    Miscarriage tests will show any extra, missing, or copies of a chromosome. This valuable information will confirm whether any chromosomal issues came from the egg or the sperm.

    I’m worried about COVID-19

    Unfortunately, not all of the tests that Natera provides can be completed at home, so you might be put at risk with some options. However, remote testing is available with some services, along with on-screen information sessions with genetic counselors. One popular test in this category is prenatal testing. You can take the test from the comfort of your own home and results will be returned within 9 weeks.

    How will I pay?

    One really positive aspect of Natera is that it’s an in-network provider with many popular health plans, and all insurance plans with national or regional carriers within the United States are accepted. 

    The payment plan is completed in four simple steps.

    1. Take a test and have your sample processed
    2. Natera produces an insurance estimate
    3. If the estimated cost is over $249, you can choose whether to pay with cash or through insurance 
    4. If you choose insurance, you’ll be sent a bill to confirm what’s owed

    Summary

    Natera is a widely respected company and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The tests on offer can change people’s lives for the better, although the turnaround time is quite slow when compared to some similar companies.

    Try Futura Genetics instead, to get most test results within four weeks. You’ll be delighted with the amazing and useful knowledge it can give you.