Functional
Medicine Testing
Sometimes it’s helpful to look a little deeper at how your body is working. Functional medicine testing can provide extra insight into things like nutrient levels, hormones, digestion and other markers that may help guide your treatment plan. These tests are entirely optional and are only ordered if you and your practitioner agree they may be useful.
At Your Optimal Health, we often use laboratories such as RN Labs and NutrIPath. You are free to use other providers if you wish. We do not make any profit from these tests and we do our best to refer to safe, accredited laboratories.
The cost of functional medicine testing usually ranges between $200 and $700, depending on which tests are recommended for your individual needs. Some specialised tests, including certain cancer-related panels, may be more expensive. We will always discuss any costs with you beforehand and seek your full financial consent before ordering anything. You are under no obligation to go ahead with any test that is suggested.
Once a test has been authorised, you will receive a link either by SMS or email directly from the testing company. When you pay the testing provider through that link, they will post a kit to your address. Each kit includes everything you need to complete the test, clear step-by-step instructions, and a pre-paid return satchel so you can send your sample straight back to the lab. Testing companies may change their processes from time to time, so if you have any questions about how to complete or return your kit, it’s usually best to contact them directly to ensure you have the most up-to-date instructions. Our team is also here if you need help understanding whether a test is appropriate for you.
Results can take up to eight weeks to come back after the laboratory receives your sample. Once your results are available, your practitioner will review them with you and discuss what they may mean for your care. You are also welcome to do your own research about the available tests and, if you prefer, you can arrange testing through other practitioners or companies.
Functional Testing
Important Information & Disclaimer
General information only.
The material on this page is provided for general information and does not constitute personal medical advice. It does not replace a consultation with a qualified health practitioner who can assess your individual circumstances.
Clinical appropriateness and consent.
Any functional tests are optional and will only be considered after discussion with your practitioner. Before proceeding, you will be informed about the purpose of the test(s), potential benefits, risks, limitations, alternatives, expected timeframes, and fees. Your explicit consent is required.
No guarantees.
Functional testing is one input into clinical decision-making and may not be suitable for everyone. Results can be inconclusive, vary between laboratories, or require repeat testing. We do not guarantee any particular outcome, diagnosis, improvement, or cure.
Third-party laboratories.
Where testing is arranged with independent providers (e.g., external laboratories), you contract directly with those providers. We do not own, operate, or control their systems, processes, methodologies, logistics, or turnaround times. To the maximum extent permitted by law, we are not responsible for delays, errors, sample handling, reporting formats, website outages, cyber incidents, or any other acts/omissions of third-party providers.
Data handling and overseas disclosure.
If you choose to proceed, your personal and health information may be collected by, stored with, or transferred to third-party providers, and may be processed or held outside Australia. Once your information is disclosed to those providers (including any overseas recipients), we cannot control how it is managed. Please carefully review each provider’s privacy policy and security practices before proceeding and consider the potential implications of cross-border data transfers for your privacy.
Fees and financial interests.
Test fees are set by the external providers and paid directly to them (unless we advise otherwise). We do not add a mark-up or profit on these tests. You will be advised of estimated costs before you decide. Functional testing is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.
Results, follow-up, and care.
Result interpretation should always occur in consultation with a qualified practitioner, considering your full clinical picture. Do not initiate, cease, or change medications/supplements based solely on a test result without professional advice. If you have urgent symptoms, call 000 or attend the nearest emergency department.
External links.
Links to third-party websites are provided for convenience only. Following these links means you are leaving our site and are subject to the third party’s terms and privacy policies.
Contact us.
If you have questions about whether a test is appropriate for you, or about privacy, data handling, or costs, please contact our clinic before proceeding.