When it comes to your health, knowledge is power—but far too often, patients aren’t aware of the tests that could provide crucial insights into their well-being.
While doctors routinely order standard blood work, there are many other tests that can help detect health risks early, explain persistent symptoms, and guide more personalized treatment. Unfortunately, many of these tests aren’t automatically offered, meaning you may need to advocate for yourself to get the information you deserve.
As a patient, you have the right to take an active role in your healthcare decisions. Whether you’re struggling with unexplained fatigue, trying to optimize your medication, or concerned about your genetic risk for disease, these tests can offer answers that traditional screenings might miss. By knowing what to ask for, you empower yourself to make informed choices—about treatment, prevention, and your overall well-being.
Here are 10 valuable tests that you can request from your doctor to take a proactive approach to your health.
1. Pharmacogenomic Testing (PGx)
- What it does: Examines genetic variations that influence how your body metabolizes medications.
- Why it’s useful: It helps personalize treatment plans by identifying medications that work best for you while minimizing side effects.
- Who should consider it: Anyone taking multiple medications, experiencing adverse drug reactions, or struggling to find effective treatments for conditions like depression, chronic pain, or heart disease.
- Cost: In Canada, pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing costs typically range from $300 to $1,500 or even higher, depending on the scope and complexity of the test, and is generally not covered by public health plans. Some insurance plans and employer-based health spending accounts may offer coverage.
2. Celiac Disease Antibody Test
- What it does: Screens for antibodies linked to celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten.
- Why it’s useful: Celiac disease can cause digestive issues, fatigue, joint pain, and nutrient deficiencies. It’s underdiagnosed because symptoms vary.
- Who should consider it: Anyone with chronic digestive problems, anemia, fatigue, or a family history of celiac disease.
- Cost: Coverage fpr this test varies depending on your province, especially if deemed when deemed medically necessary. If it is not, the cost is approximately $60 to $150. Confirm with your healthcare provider if you will be covered or not.
3. Vitamin D Level Test (25-hydroxyvitamin D)
- What it does: Measures vitamin D levels, essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
- Why it’s useful: Vitamin D deficiency is common in Canada, especially in winter due to limited sun exposure. Deficiency in this vitamin has been linked to a range of health issues, including bone disorders like rickets and osteomalacia, as well as an increased risk of certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and even dementia.
- Who should consider it: A Vitamin D test is generally recommended for individuals at high risk of deficiency, those with symptoms of deficiency, or those with medical conditions that could affect vitamin D levels, such as malabsorption syndromes or kidney disease.
- Cost: Ranges from $40 to $60. Some provinces may cover the test for patients with specific medical conditions such as osteoporosis, rickets, malabsorption syndromes, renal disease, or those on medications affecting vitamin D metabolism. Routine screening is typically not covered.
4. Ferritin Level Test (Iron Stores)
- What it does: Measures ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body, giving a more accurate picture of iron levels than a standard hemoglobin test.
- Why it’s useful: Low ferritin can cause fatigue, hair thinning, poor concentration, and restless leg syndrome, even if hemoglobin is normal.
- Who should consider it: Women with heavy periods, pregnant women, endurance athletes, or if you’re experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, or dizziness,.
- Cost: Ferritin level tests are generally covered by provincial medicare in Canada, as long as they are deemed medically necessary by a physician. If you would like to take the test privately, the cost will range from around $30 to $120
5. CRP (C-reactive protein) Test for Inflammation
- What it does: The CRP test measures the level of C-reactive protein in the blood, which is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation.
- Why it’s useful: Chronic inflammation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and even depression. Detecting it early allows for lifestyle changes and targeted interventions.
- Who should consider it: People with a family history of heart disease, those with joint pain, autoimmune disorders, or unexplained fatigue.
- Cost: CRP (C-reactive protein) tests for inflammation are generally covered by provincial Medicare in Canada, as they are considered essential diagnostic tests. Even without insurance, the test is relatively affordable, typically costing between $12 and $16.
Click on the link below to learn more the risks of untreated inflammation and lifestyle changes to counter it.
6. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test
- What it does: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months, providing an early warning for prediabetes and diabetes.
- Why it’s useful: Many Canadians have undiagnosed insulin resistance, leading to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and nerve damage.
- Who should consider it: In Canada, an HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) test is recommended for individuals aged 40 and older, those with risk factors for type 2 diabetes, and those with prediabetes or diabetes to assess blood sugar control and manage diabetes effectively.
- Cost: A physician-ordered Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test for diagnosing or monitoring diabetes is generally covered by provincial medicare. Privately, the cost of an HbA1c test in Canada ranges from $30 to $110 depending on whether you choose a home collection kit or a clinic visit.
7. Homocysteine Test
- What it does: Measures homocysteine levels, an amino acid linked to cardiovascular disease and vitamin B12/B6/folate deficiency.
- Why it’s useful: High levels can indicate a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline. It can also signal poor absorption of B vitamins, which are crucial for nerve function.
- Who should consider it: In Canada, a homocysteine test is typically recommended for individuals at high risk of heart disease or stroke, suspected of having vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, or those with a family history of coronary artery disease,
- Cost: Ranges from $70 to $190. Provincial medicare may cover the test in certain circumstances (like suspected B12/folate deficiency), it’s essential to check with your doctor to confirm coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
8. Thyroid Antibody Testing
- What it does: Detects autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease, which can cause hormone imbalances.
- Why it’s useful: Many thyroid issues go undiagnosed because standard TSH tests don’t always detect autoimmune-related problems. Symptoms can include weight gain, hair loss, anxiety, and fatigue.
- Who should consider it: Thyroid antibody testing is generally recommended for individuals with symptoms or signs of thyroid disease, a family history of thyroid disorders, or those with other autoimmune conditions, or if you have abnormal thyroid hormone levels.
- Cost: Comprehensive thyroid testing, including antibody tests, costs around $120. Standard thyroid function tests (e.g., TSH) are usually covered; however, antibody testing may not be covered unless specific criteria are met.
9. Food Sensitivity Testing (IgG Testing)
- What it does: Identifies delayed immune reactions to foods, which can cause chronic inflammation and symptoms like bloating, migraines, joint pain, or skin conditions.
- Why it’s useful: Unlike immediate allergic reactions (IgE-mediated), food sensitivities (IgG) can cause long-term symptoms that are hard to pinpoint.
- Who should consider it: People with ongoing digestive issues, unexplained fatigue, skin problems, or migraines that haven’t responded to other treatments.
- Cost: The cost of IgG food sensitivity testing can range from around $139 to over $700, depending on the specific test and provider. These tests are not covered under medicare, as IgG food sensitivity testing is considered non-essential and even controversial by some medical organizations.
10. Genetic Cancer Risk Testing (BRCA or Lynch Syndrome)
- What it does: Assesses inherited genetic mutations that increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers.
- Why it’s useful: Early knowledge of genetic risks allows for preventive measures like increased screenings or lifestyle changes.
- Who should consider it: individuals with a personal or strong family history of certain cancers, particularly breast, ovarian, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, should consider genetic testing for BRCA or Lynch Syndrome, especially if diagnosed at a young age or with specific cancer types.
- Cost: Can range from $300 to over $4,000, depending on the extent of testing. Covered for individuals who meet specific criteria, such as a strong family history of related cancers. Eligibility is determined through genetic counseling.
These tests provide valuable insights into health risks and conditions that might otherwise go undetected. While some may not be covered by provincial healthcare plans, they can be crucial for early detection and prevention.
Important Considerations:
- Coverage Criteria: Medicare coverage often depends on medical necessity and specific criteria. It’s essential to discuss with your healthcare provider to determine eligibility.
- Private Insurance: Some private insurance plans may cover tests not funded by provincial medicare. Review your policy or consult with your insurance provider for details.
- Cost Variations: Prices can vary between laboratories and clinics. It’s advisable to compare costs and services before proceeding.
Your health is your responsibility, and being proactive can make all the difference. While healthcare providers play a vital role in diagnosing and treating conditions, they may not always offer every test that could benefit you.
By staying informed, asking questions, and advocating for the right screenings, you take control of your well-being. Whether you’re seeking answers for ongoing symptoms, optimizing treatments, or looking to prevent future health issues, these tests can provide valuable insights.
Knowledge truly is power—so don’t hesitate to ask for the tests that could help you live a healthier, longer life.
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The information provided on TheHealthInsider.ca is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. TheHealthInsider.ca advises consulting a medical professional or healthcare provider when seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
