Frequently Asked Questions for Alzheimer’s Mirror

1. Can APOE genetic testing really tell me anything, if I already know I have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease?
2. Even if I get a more accurate risk, what can I really do about it?
3. Why hasn’t my family doctor told me about this test?
4. How much does Alzheimer’s Mirror cost?
5. Is the APOE test offered by Alzheimer’s Mirror covered by insurance?
6. Will I lose my health insurance or my job if I take this test?
7. Who can gain access to my genetic test results?
8. What are genetic counselors?

Can APOE genetic testing really tell me anything, if I already know I have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease?

Yes. A genetic risk assessment for Alzheimer’s disease helps you and your doctor get a more accurate understanding of your risk compared to the general population, thereby empowering you to make the best decisions for your health, your family and your future.

Even if I get a more accurate risk, what can I really do about it?

Just as there are things you can do to keep your heart healthy, recent studies suggests there are many things you can do to keep your brain healthy and help lower your overall risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Why hasn’t my family doctor told me about this test?

APOE testing is currently the best documented genetic risk factor for determining a patient’s risk for developing late onset Alzheimer’s. However many doctors, especially general practitioners, may not yet have information on the latest genetic testing options for the disease.

How much does Alzheimer’s Mirror cost?

You can order Alzheimer’s Mirror now for $399. To place your order, click here

Is the APOE test offered by Alzheimer’s Mirror covered by insurance?
No. Alzheimer’s Mirror™ is currently not covered by health insurance companies.

Will I lose my health insurance or my job if I take this test?
Genetic discrimination is against the law. A number of federal and state laws prohibit insurance discrimination to various degrees. The Health Insurance Portability Protection Act (HIPAA) recognizes genetic information as Protected Health Information (PHI) and specifies protection for the confidentiality of PHI. HIPAA also provides restrictions on health-related information in making coverage decisions and in setting premiums by group health insurers, although HIPAA does not provide such restrictions for non-group plans.

Moreover, HIPPA states that genetic information in the absence of a diagnosis cannot be considered a pre-existing condition. In the federal government, executive departments and agencies are prohibited by executive order from using protected genetic information as a basis for employment decisions. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has interpreted the Americans with Disabilities act to provide some additional protections from the use of genetic information by employers. Many states have enacted additional protections against genetic discrimination in health insurance or employment or both.

Recently, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), a federal law which provides both health insurance and employment protection, has passed both the House and the Senate and is currently waiting to be signed into law. For more information on GINA go to www.genome.gov

Who can gain access to my genetic test results?
Test results are strictly confidential and are password protected. Only you and your genetic counselor will have access to your results. Alzheimer’s Mirror will not release patient results to any third party.

What are genetic counselors?
Genetic counselors help people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and the family implications of genetic contributions to disease. They are typically mastered level professionals trained at an accredited genetic counseling training program. For more information about genetic counseling see www.nsgc.org