TBD | The New World of DIY Medical Tests
1Digest
This episode of WhatNextTBD delves into the burgeoning world of at-home medical testing, a trend fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic and Silicon Valley startups. The episode highlights the story of Angelica Sharma, a New Jersey mom who used a home microbiome test from Tiny Health to diagnose and treat her daughter's severe digestive issues. This case exemplifies the potential of at-home testing to provide quicker and more accessible healthcare solutions. However, the episode also explores the concerns surrounding this growing market, including the lack of FDA regulation for many tests, the potential for inaccurate results, and the risk of self-diagnosis and treatment. Doctors express concerns about patients misinterpreting test results and potentially harming themselves. The episode concludes by discussing the need for greater regulation and transparency in the at-home testing industry, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with patient safety.
Outlines
Progressive Advertisement
This Chapter is an advertisement for Progressive home and auto insurance policies, highlighting the benefits of bundling these policies and the potential savings for customers.
Supreme Court Decisions and the Upcoming Election
This Chapter discusses the significance of the US Supreme Court in the upcoming election and highlights the recent raft of decisions made by the court, covering topics such as pollution, air travel, abortion rights, gun violence, and presidential immunity.
The Rise of At-Home Medical Testing
This Chapter explores the rapid growth of at-home medical testing, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the desire for more accessible healthcare. The episode features the story of Angelica Sharma, a mother who used a home microbiome test to diagnose and treat her daughter's digestive issues.
Concerns and Controversies Surrounding At-Home Testing
This Chapter delves into the concerns and controversies surrounding the rise of at-home medical testing. Doctors express concerns about the accuracy of these tests, the potential for self-diagnosis and treatment, and the lack of FDA regulation for many tests. The episode also discusses the potential for patients to misinterpret test results and make harmful decisions about their health.
Keywords
At-Home Medical Testing
The practice of conducting medical tests at home, often using kits purchased online or at pharmacies, without direct involvement of a healthcare professional. This trend has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and is fueled by Silicon Valley startups.
FDA Regulation
The oversight and regulation of medical devices and products by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The FDA plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medical products, including at-home tests.
Microbiome Testing
A type of medical test that analyzes the composition and function of the microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses) living in the human gut. This testing can provide insights into digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.
Tiny Health
A company that specializes in microbiome testing for children under five. The company was founded by a woman whose child had gastric issues and allergies, and it offers testing and personalized recommendations for improving gut health.
Everly Well
A startup company that offers a wide range of at-home medical tests, including tests for women's health, men's health, metabolism, thyroid function, food allergies, and more. The company has raised significant venture capital funding and has been a pioneer in the at-home testing market.
Direct-to-Consumer Testing
A model of healthcare delivery where patients can purchase and use medical tests directly from companies without the need for a doctor's prescription or referral. This model has become increasingly popular with the rise of at-home testing.
Influencer Marketing
A marketing strategy that utilizes influential individuals (influencers) on social media platforms to promote products or services to their followers. This strategy is commonly used by at-home testing companies to reach a wider audience.
Theranos
A now-defunct company that claimed to revolutionize blood testing with its technology. Theranos was accused of fraud and deception, and its founder, Elizabeth Holmes, was convicted of multiple crimes. The Theranos case serves as a cautionary tale about the potential risks of unchecked innovation in the healthcare industry.
Wellness
A holistic approach to health and well-being that emphasizes lifestyle choices, preventative measures, and proactive management of health. The concept of wellness has gained popularity in recent years, and it has influenced the development of at-home testing products that focus on monitoring and improving various aspects of health.
Gen Z
The generation born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s. Gen Z is known for its tech-savviness, its focus on social justice, and its interest in health and wellness. This generation is a key target market for at-home testing companies.
Q&A
What are the potential benefits of at-home medical testing?
At-home medical testing can provide more accessible and convenient healthcare options, allowing individuals to test themselves for various conditions without the need for a doctor's appointment. It can also empower patients to take a more proactive role in managing their health.
What are the concerns surrounding at-home medical testing?
Concerns include the accuracy of these tests, the potential for self-diagnosis and treatment, and the lack of FDA regulation for many tests. Doctors worry that patients may misinterpret test results and make harmful decisions about their health.
How is the FDA responding to the growth of the at-home testing market?
The FDA is increasingly regulating the at-home testing market, recognizing the potential risks and harms associated with this trend. They are working to ensure that tests are accurate, safe, and meet appropriate standards.
What is the role of social media in the marketing of at-home medical tests?
Social media plays a significant role in marketing at-home medical tests, with companies using influencer marketing and targeted advertising to reach a wide audience. This can contribute to increased awareness and demand for these tests.
How does the rise of at-home testing relate to the Theranos case?
The Theranos case serves as a cautionary tale about the potential risks of unchecked innovation in the healthcare industry. It highlights the importance of rigorous testing, regulation, and transparency in the development and marketing of medical technologies.
What are the perspectives of doctors on at-home medical testing?
Many doctors are concerned about the accuracy and potential harms of at-home testing. They emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare and the need for professional evaluation and interpretation of test results.
What are the future implications of the growing at-home testing market?
The future of at-home testing is likely to involve greater regulation, increased accuracy, and a more integrated approach to healthcare. It is important to balance innovation with patient safety and ensure that these tests are used responsibly.
How can consumers make informed decisions about using at-home medical tests?
Consumers should research the company and the test, understand the potential risks and benefits, and consult with their doctor before using any at-home medical test. They should also be aware of the limitations of these tests and the importance of professional interpretation of results.
What are the ethical considerations surrounding at-home medical testing?
Ethical considerations include the potential for overdiagnosis, the risk of self-treatment, and the need for informed consent. It is important to ensure that patients are fully informed about the tests they are using and the potential consequences of their decisions.
What is the role of technology in shaping the future of healthcare?
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, with innovations such as at-home testing, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence transforming how we access and manage our health. It is crucial to ensure that these technologies are developed and used responsibly and ethically.
Show Notes
“Home diagnostics” are a $5 billion industry—and growing. Spurred by social media, people are buying into at-home health tests, without input from their doctors, and often, not even the FDA.
Guest: Elizabeth Dwoskin, reporter for the Washington Post
Want more What Next TBD? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Table of contents
United States
