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Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia: Personalized Medicine for Better Treatment Outcomes

by | Feb 10, 2026 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Healthcare is rapidly evolving from a one-size-fits-all approach to precision medicine, and one of the most powerful tools driving this change is pharmacogenomic testing. As awareness grows across the United States, Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia is becoming an essential component of modern healthcare, helping doctors prescribe the right medication at the right dose for each patient.

At Pillars Dx, we specialize in advanced pharmacogenomic solutions designed to improve treatment effectiveness, reduce adverse drug reactions, and support better clinical decision-making across Georgia.

 

What Is Pharmacogenomic Testing?

Pharmacogenomic testing (PGx testing) analyzes how a person’s genetic makeup affects their response to medications. Our genes influence how drugs are absorbed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body. Variations in certain genes can cause medications to be:

  • Too strong (leading to side effects) 
  • Too weak (resulting in poor treatment response) 
  • Completely ineffective 
  • Potentially harmful 

By using pharmacogenomic testing, healthcare providers can move away from trial-and-error prescribing and toward evidence-based, personalized treatment plans.

 

Why Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia Is Gaining Importance

The demand for Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia is growing due to several key factors:

  1. Rising chronic disease prevalence such as depression, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and chronic pain 
  2. Increased use of complex medication regimens, especially among elderly patients 
  3. Growing awareness among physicians about genetic drug response 
  4. Advancements in diagnostic technology making testing faster and more accessible 

Healthcare providers across Georgia are recognizing that pharmacogenomic testing improves patient safety while reducing healthcare costs linked to medication failure and hospitalizations.

 

How Pharmacogenomic Testing Works

Pharmacogenomic testing is a simple and non-invasive process:

  1. Sample Collection – Usually a cheek swab or saliva sample 
  2. Genetic Analysis – The sample is analyzed for specific gene variants related to drug metabolism 
  3. Clinical Report – Results indicate how a patient may respond to various medications 
  4. Personalized Treatment Plan – Physicians use the data to guide medication selection and dosing 

At Pillars Dx, our reports are designed to be clinically actionable, easy to interpret, and aligned with current medical guidelines.

Conditions That Benefit from Pharmacogenomic Testing

Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia is widely used across multiple medical specialties, including:

Mental Health

  • Depression 
  • Anxiety 
  • Bipolar disorder 
  • ADHD 

PGx testing helps identify which antidepressants or psychiatric medications are most likely to work with fewer side effects.

Cardiology

  • Blood thinners (e.g., clopidogrel, warfarin) 
  • Cholesterol medications 
  • Hypertension drugs 

Genetic insights help reduce the risk of bleeding, clotting, or ineffective therapy.

Pain Management

  • Opioid response 
  • Non-opioid pain medications 

Testing helps prevent over-medication and reduces dependency risks.

Oncology

  • Chemotherapy selection 
  • Targeted cancer therapies 

Pharmacogenomics supports safer and more effective cancer treatment strategies.

Benefits of Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia

Choosing pharmacogenomic testing offers significant advantages for both patients and providers:

  • Reduced trial-and-error prescribing 
  • Lower risk of adverse drug reactions 
  • Faster symptom improvement 
  • Improved medication adherence 
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction 
  • Cost savings from fewer hospital visits 

With Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia, healthcare becomes more precise, proactive, and patient-centered.

Why Choose Pillars Dx for Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia?

Pillars Dx is committed to delivering reliable, science-backed pharmacogenomic solutions that support better healthcare outcomes across Georgia.

What Sets Pillars Dx Apart?

  • Advanced genetic testing technology 
  • Clinician-friendly reports 
  • Evidence-based medication guidance 
  • Compliance with clinical standards 
  • Fast turnaround times 
  • Dedicated support for providers 

Our mission at Pillars Dx is to empower healthcare professionals with actionable genetic insights that improve patient care and treatment success.

Who Should Consider Pharmacogenomic Testing?

Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia is especially beneficial for:

  • Patients who have tried multiple medications without success 
  • Individuals experiencing frequent medication side effects 
  • Elderly patients on multiple prescriptions 
  • Patients starting long-term medication therapy 
  • Healthcare providers aiming to improve treatment precision 

Whether you are a patient or a provider, pharmacogenomic testing can significantly improve treatment confidence and outcomes.

Is Pharmacogenomic Testing Covered by Insurance in Georgia?

Coverage for pharmacogenomic testing in Georgia varies depending on:

  • Insurance provider 
  • Medical necessity 
  • Specific medications involved 
  • Clinical documentation 

Many insurers, including Medicare, cover PGx testing when medically justified. Pillars Dx works closely with healthcare providers to support documentation and reimbursement processes wherever possible.

The Future of Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia

The future of Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia is promising. As precision medicine continues to expand, genetic testing will play a central role in:

  • Preventive healthcare 
  • Chronic disease management 
  • Mental health treatment optimization 
  • Reduced healthcare costs 
  • Improved patient safety 

Georgia is well-positioned to lead in adopting pharmacogenomics across hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices.

Getting Started with Pharmacogenomic Testing at Pillars Dx

Starting pharmacogenomic testing with Pillars Dx is straightforward:

  1. Partner with Pillars Dx for testing services 
  2. Collect a simple patient sample 
  3. Receive comprehensive genetic reports 
  4. Integrate results into personalized treatment plans 

Our team supports providers at every step, ensuring seamless integration into clinical workflows.

Conclusion

Pharmacogenomic Testing in Georgia is transforming how medications are prescribed and managed. By understanding how genetics influence drug response, patients receive safer, more effective treatments tailored to their unique biology.

At Pillars Dx, we are proud to support healthcare providers across Georgia with advanced pharmacogenomic testing solutions that drive better outcomes, reduce risks, and advance personalized medicine.

If you are ready to move beyond trial-and-error prescribing, pharmacogenomic testing is the future—and that future is here in Georgia.

admin

Phillip E.milies

Daniel Radovich

Sales Executive

Daniel Radovich serves as a Sales Executive at PillarsDx, bringing a dynamic blend of healthcare knowledge, sales expertise, and strategic relationship-building. With a strong background spanning both clinical operations and business development, Daniel excels at connecting providers with diagnostic solutions that enhance patient care and drive operational efficiency.

In his role, Daniel leads initiatives in client acquisition and territory development, establishing trusted partnerships with clinics, physicians, and healthcare networks. His collaborative approach, combined with a deep understanding of provider needs, enables him to deliver customized solutions that support practice growth and improve clinical workflows.
Passionate about elevating healthcare delivery, Daniel is dedicated to helping practices thrive—whether through boosting screening volumes, simplifying processes, or introducing high-value services. His reputation for integrity, follow-through, and measurable impact makes him a vital contributor to our mission.
Daniel resides in Acworth, Georgia, where he enjoys life with his two beloved dogs, Frank and Eddie.
Phillip E.milies

Joseph G. Hackel, MD

Medical Director

Dr. Joseph G. Hackel serves as the Medical Director at PillarsDx, where he brings over two decades of expertise in pathology and dermatopathology. He received his medical degree from Mercer University School of Medicine and went on to complete his residency in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Hackel further honed his skills through a prestigious Dermatopathology fellowship at the Ackerman Academy in New York City. He is double board-certified by the American Board of Pathology and the American Board of Dermatology.

Throughout his career, Dr. Hackel has been committed to providing accurate, timely diagnoses to support optimal patient care. Since joining Bako Pathology Services in 2008, he has played a key role in leading diagnostic efforts, leveraging his deep expertise in skin-related conditions. His passion for pathology, combined with his dedication to improving patient outcomes, makes him a valuable leader in the field.

Kelly Whitmire

Director of RCM

With an impressive 24 years of experience in healthcare, including 20 years specializing in healthcare administration, Kelly Whitmire brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. She holds a degree in Laboratory and Healthcare Management, showcasing her commitment to advancing healthcare operations and improving patient outcomes. Kelly’s extensive background and leadership skills make her an invaluable asset to our organization.

Phillip E.milies
Phillip E.milies

Eric Collier

Director of Operations

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Eric Collier's diverse upbringing as a military child gave him the unique opportunity to live in various states and countries, fostering a love for travel and exploring new cultures. In his spare time, he enjoys discovering new restaurants and experiencing different culinary scenes throughout the city.

With over 19 years of experience in the clinical laboratory field, Eric is a seasoned laboratory manager and clinical laboratory scientist known for delivering high-quality, efficient testing results that directly aid in patient care. He has extensive experience in laboratory management, having successfully launched four individual labs from the ground up. His expertise spans recruiting and training top-tier teams, establishing comprehensive protocols, and ensuring strict adherence to all regulatory requirements.

Eric’s approach is deeply rooted in process improvement, team development, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. His leadership in laboratory management has consistently driven operational excellence and enhanced patient outcomes.

Educational Background & Certifications

Eric holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Sciences from Texas Southern University and has earned multiple certifications, including:

  • Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
  • Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Healthcare
  • Certified Laboratory Consultant

Eric’s blend of technical expertise, leadership, and dedication to continuous improvement makes him a valuable asset in the clinical laboratory industry

Jen Vuthy

Accessioning Supervisor

With over seven years of experience in accessioning and collections management, Jen Vuthy currently serves as the Accession Supervisor at PillarsDx. In this capacity, she is responsible for overseeing the intake and cataloging of new collections, ensuring that all items are meticulously recorded and preserved. Her attention to detail and commitment to organizational excellence have made her a key figure in maintaining the integrity of the lab’s processes.

Jen’s expertise has been instrumental in implementing best practices in accessioning, optimizing workflows, and promoting cross-departmental collaboration. She is dedicated to upholding principles of accessibility, preservation, and education, continuously working to ensure these values are reflected in the lab’s daily operations. Jen also takes pride in mentoring team members and sharing her knowledge to elevate the collective expertise of her colleagues.

Outside of her professional role, Jen is passionate about her family, friends, and personal development. She actively engages in learning experiences that contribute to her health and well-being and is involved in real estate education within her community."

Phillip E.milies
Phillip E.milies

Daniel Hewitt

Director of Business Development

Head of Business Development at PillarsDx, where he combines his deep technical expertise with a wealth of experience in sales, customer acquisition, and practice management. With a background that includes working for Microsoft, Daniel brings a unique fusion of IT proficiency and strategic business insight to his role. His ability to understand complex technological systems while excelling in customer relations allows him to develop innovative solutions that enhance client experiences and streamline operations. Daniel’s leadership has been instrumental in driving growth at PillarsDx. He is known for his dedication to building strong, lasting relationships with clients, ensuring their needs are not only met but consistently exceeded. His commitment to customer service excellence, coupled with his knack for identifying opportunities for business expansion, makes him a pivotal force in the lab’s continued success. Passionate about the intersection of technology and healthcare, Daniel strives to create an environment where innovation and service come together to deliver unmatched value to clients and patients alike.

Andrea Wood

Lab Manager

Andrea Wood has been a dedicated member of our team for the past seven years. She holds a bachelor's degree in Chemistry and an associate's degree as a Medical Laboratory Technician. Andrea brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role, ensuring the highest standards in laboratory practices.

Outside of work, Andrea is an active and passionate coach, leading basketball teams and enjoying a variety of sports, including football, baseball, and softball. In her personal time, she enjoys cooking and spending quality moments with her family. She is married and the proud mother of a 21-month-old son, whose joy and curiosity inspire her every day.

Phillip E.milies
Phillip E.milies

Fern Johnson

Owner, PillarsDx

Fern Johnson is a dynamic and results-driven leader with over 25 years of experience spanning accounting, financial management, and laboratory operations. She holds a B.S. in Business Management from Eckerd College and an MBA in Accounting from Keller Graduate School of Management.

Fern has led strategic initiatives across both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, with a strong track record in mergers and acquisitions, financial restructuring, and sustainable growth. Her expertise in healthcare operations was sharpened during her leadership at one of the nation’s largest privately held cancer genetics laboratories, where she oversaw Accounting, Finance, and Revenue Cycle Management—culminating in a successful eight-figure LOI.

As the Owner of PillarsDx, Fern leverages her deep operational and financial knowledge to drive innovation and efficiency in the diagnostics space. She is also the founder and CEO of Career Sisters LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to empowering women of color in business and leadership. A published author and sought-after speaker, Fern is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

She resides in Johns Creek, Georgia, with her husband and four children. In her free time, Fern enjoys reading, traveling, and mentoring the next generation of leaders.