Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a test directly?
No. Our testing can only be ordered by your physician.

How will knowing more about my genomic alterations help determine a treatment plan?
Knowing the alterations that are driving your cancer may help to identify targeted FDA-approved and clinical trial therapies that in some cases have been proven to be more effective than organ- and tissue-specific treatments.

How do you order the test and what information needs to be provided?
Your doctor will need to order the test directly from STAR Health Network by completing a simple requisition form. We will coordinate the collection of specimen samples (blood or saliva, as necessary) and will request the tumor sample from your hospital’s pathology department.

How long does it take to get results from the test?
From the time STAR Health Network receives the necessary specimen samples, it typically takes approximately two to three weeks to sequence and generate your report. The report will be delivered to your physician, who will contact you when the results are received.

Is the test covered by my health insurance or by Medicare?
We will work with your insurance company to submit for reimbursement. A comprehensive patient-assistance program is also available. Apply for assistance at access.STAR Health Network.com. If unable to complete the online application, please contact our Client Services team at 800-739-4137 for assistance.

How does STAR Health Network obtain my tumor sample for testing?
We will work with your hospitalʼs pathology department to obtain your tissue sample. Your tumor sample will be sent to our secure sequencing lab in Chicago.

What is included in the final report?
We generate a comprehensive report that will present your tumor biology, potential targeted therapies and your patient history. The report will also highlight recruiting clinical trials, if available, that fit your profile. We also provide other insights for deeper exploration of available options.

How do I get a copy of my test results?
The report will be sent to your physician to share with you.

Is the STAR Health Network test right for me?
Our services explore options for patients with metastatic, refractory and recurrent cancer. Eligible patients include those with cancer of unknown origin; rare or uncommon solid tumors with limited treatment options; solid tumors not responding to standard of care; recurrent or metastatic cancer, or an interest in enrolling in clinical trials. It’s up to your doctor to decide if genetic sequencing can help in your cancer treatment.

How is your sequencing better than others?
Our comprehensive xT test checks hundreds of genes for alterations by testing both the tumor tissue DNA and the normal tissue DNA, when available, along with testing the RNA. By testing all three together, we improve the detection of tumor-specific alterations and take a deep look into your tumor’s biology.

I received a “Request of Information” (ROI) from my physician. What does this mean?
Your doctor may ask that you complete a form before your specimen is sent to STAR Health Network. Please ask your doctor if you have questions about it.

Do I need to provide consent for my physician to order a STAR Health Network test?
Your physician needs to obtain your consent in order to order a STAR Health Network test. If you live in Alaska, California, Florida, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Texas, or Vermont, we will reach out to you to sign a patient consent specific to your state.

How is my information used?
Please see our Privacy Policy and our HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices for more information.

Are STAR Health Network tests available outside of the United States?
Yes, STAR Health Network tests are available in 20+ countries across North, Central, South America, Europe, Middle East, and Asia.