At Baylor Genetics, behind every test result is a team of dedicated clinical professionals working to uncover answers that improve lives for our patients and families. We asked them to help bust some of the most common myths in genetic testing — from misunderstandings about Whole Genome Sequencing to questions about insurance coverage. They’re here to set the record straight!
Jason Chibuk, VP, Medical Affairs
Myth: Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) test for everything.
Fact: WGS and WES are powerful tools for uncovering a wide number of genetic causes of disease. However, even these tests cannot identify every possible genetic change. In some cases, WGS and WES need to be combined with other specialized testing to find and understand certain changes. Last year, Baylor Genetics introduced RNA Sequencing alongside WGS and WES, providing critical insights that helped a patient’s family finally uncover the answers needed to guide their son’s care and bring their diagnostic odyssey to an end.
Billy Mai, Director, Laboratory Operations
Myth: Genetic conditions are rare.
Fact: Genetic conditions are often labeled as rare, but the truth is a bit more surprising. While certain genetic conditions may only be seen in a few patients worldwide, many common inherited disorders exist. When adding them all up—including inherited cancers, familial heart conditions, and metabolic disorders—genetic conditions affect an estimated 6-10% of the overall population! As scientific understanding of genetics deepens, it’s becoming increasingly clear that our genes play a powerful role in shaping many health conditions.
John Lattier, Ph.D., Senior Director, Clinical Genomic Scientists
Myth: Our genetic sequence remains the same throughout a person’s life.
Fact: If only human genetics were that simple! Over time, our cells divide to replace old or damaged ones. As they divide, changes in the DNA of these cells may arise. These changes, which are called somatic variants, then get passed to future cells, and can build up over a lifetime creating cancerous cells or other health conditions. The good news? Identifying somatic variants can open the door to faster, more targeted treatments.
Nichole Owen, Ph.D., Clinical Director
Myth: Non-invasive prenatal testing provides diagnostic results for pregnancies.
Fact: Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT, sometimes called non-invasive prenatal screening or NIPS) is often misunderstood. While it’s a powerful screening tool, it’s important to remember that NIPT is not a diagnostic test. NIPT helps to determine if a pregnancy might be at a higher risk to be affected by certain conditions, but it doesn’t provide a definitive “yes” or “no” answer by itself.
NIPT is generally ordered alongside other non-genetic tests, like an ultrasound, to get more information about the health of a pregnancy. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor may order diagnostic genetic testing to provide a clear, definitive diagnosis.
Lisa White, Ph.D., Senior Director, Lab Operations
Myth: Working in a clinical diagnostic lab is like what you see on TV crime shows.
Fact: Forensic genetics is just one small part of the field. Clinical labs focus on patient diagnostics and rare disease research. Baylor Genetics relies on highly skilled scientists and technologists, who meticulously analyze results, troubleshoot issues, and ensure accuracy—every test is a mix of automation and human expertise. They also partner with genetic counselors, quality specialists, and other individuals to uphold the highest standard of precision and reliability.
Laura Andolina, Senior Director, Clinical Support
Myth: If my test results are negative, I don’t need to see a genetic counselor.
Fact: A negative result doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear. A genetic counselor can help interpret your results in the context of your personal and family history, discuss what your results mean, and determine if additional testing may be helpful. To connect with one of our board-certified genetic counselors, click here.
Yue Wang, Ph.D., Senior Clinical Director
Myth: Genetic testing is only useful after symptoms appear.
Fact: While genetic testing is often ordered by doctors when a patient has symptoms of a genetic condition, there are many times where proactive genetic testing can be helpful! If someone knows that they have a family history of a genetic condition, testing can help them know if they also have that genetic condition or are at increased risk of developing it. Finding out before symptoms begin can lead to more treatment options, earlier screening for signs of the condition, and other benefits.
Andrew Kosterman, Senior Director, Quality Management
Myth: Genetic testing is only for people with a family history of a condition.
Fact: Many genetic conditions can arise in individuals with no known family history. In some cases, they’re the result of de novo (new) genetic changes that aren’t inherited from either parent. That’s why genetic testing is such a powerful tool, it can uncover hidden risks, support early detection, and guide more personalized, proactive medical care.
Linyan Meng, Ph.D., VP Clinical Reporting
Myth: Genetic testing isn’t covered by insurance.
Fact: Many genetic tests, including Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), are covered by insurance when medically necessary. Coverage depends on factors like your personal and family medical history, the type of test, and your insurance provider’s policies. At Baylor Genetics, we work closely with insurance companies to help patients access the testing they need. If coverage is denied, there may be financial assistance programs or self-pay options available to make testing more affordable. If your patient lives in the United States, they may be eligible for Baylor Genetics’ Financial Assistance Program. Eligibility is based on household size and income.
Genetics can be complex but understanding it doesn’t have to be. As science advances, so do the insights that can change lives. At Baylor Genetics, we’re committed to delivering accurate, meaningful answers, so patients and providers can move forward with clarity, confidence, and the power to make informed decisions.
Help your patients cut through the confusion. Share this resource to address common misconceptions about genetic testing, and if you’d like to learn more about how Baylor Genetics can support your practice, contact us today.
