Discontinuation of Rare Disease Testing at LifeLabs Genetics

Discontinuation of Rare Disease Testing at LifeLabs Genetics

Starting May 2, 2022, LifeLabs Genetics will no longer offer genetic tests related to Rare Disease diagnosis. However, we continue to expand our genetic test offerings in other areas, such as reproductive health, wellness, oncology and risk assessment and testing, to support personalised treatments (Companion Diagnostics, Pharmacogenetics).  

Test methodologies that are affected include:  

• Rare Disease genetic test queries and techniques, such as NGS, variant confirmation, repeat expansion, and MLPA, regardless of reimbursement mechanism (i.e., public and private-paid testing) 

When is this happening?  

The last day we will be accepting requisition forms for genetic tests related to Rare Disease diagnosis is May 1, 2022. Any tests ordered and received by LifeLabs until this date will be processed and reported back to the ordering healthcare provider, respecting the usual timelines. 

As part of our transition, from now until the end of our offering of Rare Disease genetic testing, we will be sending all tests to our partner lab, Centogene Gmbh. As Centogene is out-of-country, healthcare providers who rely on Ministry funding will need to re-apply for funding for tests that were initially to be tested at our BC lab and select Centogene GmBH as the testing lab. Tests that were originally to be tested at Centogene and are funded, will be processed as per usual. We will work closely with the British Columbia and Ontario Ministry of Health and healthcare providers to ensure minimal disruption and clarity in the funding re-application process. 

The application form can be found here:  

• Ontario (Go to forms.ssb.gov.on.ca and look up “genetics” in the search bar): https://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/FormDetail?OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH=&ENV=WWE&NO=014-4521-84 

• British Columbia: http://www.bccss.org/clinical-services/bcaplm/health-professionals/out-of-province-out-of-country-funding

For future Rare Disease genetic testing, please consider the following:  

• Our genetic counsellors can assist with finding testing options. Please contact them at 1-844-363-4357 ext. 42860 or counsellors@lifelabs.com 
• Other genetic labs, such as Ambry, Blueprint Genetics, Centogene, GeneDx, Invitae, and Prevention Genetics

We apologize for any inconvenience, and we want to thank you for your continued trust and confidence in LifeLabs as your partner for genetics needs. Please visit LifeLabs Genetics website (https://www.lifelabsgenetics.com/) for more information.