Rite Aid First offering genetic testing

Rite Aid has begun offering select genetic tests in all of its locations except those in New York State. Rite Aid is the first U.S. pharmacy chain to do so.

The Harmonyx tests help patients determine which medication therapy is most effective for them based on their genetic makeup.

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Rite Aid will offer genetic testing for medications used to manage cardiac conditions, cholesterol, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

"At Rite Aid, we are committed to offering our customers unique and innovative products, services and programs that meet their individual wellness needs, and personalized medication therapy through genetic testing is a perfect example of such a service," said Jocelyn Konrad, Rite Aid’s executive vice president of pharmacy.

"By offering Harmonyx genetic testing to our customers, we're helping to ensure that the medication they are taking is the most effective medication to help them treat and manage their condition while avoiding unnecessary and potentially harmful side effects," Konrad said.

Once customers purchase the kits and self-administer the oral swab test, Rite Aid pharmacists will send the sample to Harmonyx for processing. The results are returned to the pharmacist and treating physician.

"Knowledge really is power so the more people who are aware of the availability and accessibility of these genetic tests, the greater the impact we can have on the health of our communities," said Bob Bean, Harmonyx’s president and CEO.

"With our tests now being at nearly 4,000 Rite Aid locations, we have an opportunity to make a true difference in the lives of people by making sure that the medication they are taking is the right therapy for them," Bean said.