For Participants

A program to benefit you — for free.

Catalyst provides access to a clinical genetic test designed to help you understand your own health and support your doctor in keeping you healthy.

You also help researchers learn more about how health affects different people across Alabama. It’s one small step that could make a big difference for you and for others.

Catalyst gives you access to a genetic test that provides health insights including if you have gene mutations and how your body responds to certain medications. All testing is clinical-grade, done in a certified lab, and provided at no cost to you or your provider, with or without insurance.

Join Now

Inherited Conditions

How Your Body Processes Medications

  • Your results will show how your body may respond to over 70 common medications, including antidepressants, statins, and blood thinners.
  • This can help reduce side effects or find more effective prescriptions.

Your Risk for Common Diseases

  • This test combines your genetic risk and your clinical risk factors (like age and sex) to calculate a polygenic risk score (PRS).
  • Your PRS estimates your risk for chronic conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and breast cancer – even if they don’t run in your family.
  • PRS are only available from blood samples currently.
Explore Everything Included in the Test

Eligibility

Most adults in Alabama are eligible to join Catalyst. See the requirements below to see if you qualify.

Adults Only

You must be 19 years of age or older to participate.

Live in Alabama

You must live in the state of Alabama.

Important Note

You must not have had a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. You also
must not be incarcerated or in a state-ordered facility.

Catalyst Journey

Joining Catalyst is simple and free. Use the steps below to get started and participate in the program.

  • 1

    Create an Account

    Create your Catalyst account by clicking Join Now and answer a few quick questions.

  • 2

    Consent to Participate

    Review the study details, and, if you choose, give your consent to join.

  • 3

    Tell Us Your Provider’s Name

    Share your primary care provider’s name if you have one. No provider? You can still participate!

  • 4

    Order Your Genetic Test

    Choose a cheek swab kit at home or blood draw at your provider’s office*.

  • 5

    Receive Your Results

    Meet with a genetic counselor to review your results and learn what they mean for your health.

Participating Clinics & Providers

You don’t need a provider to participate in Catalyst. However, many providers across Alabama are already actively engaged and excited to offer this opportunity to their patients.

Use the map below to see which clinics are currently participating.

Don’t see your provider? It’s okay – you don’t need to. Create an account and provide us with your provider’s name. We will contact them for you.

Your Privacy Matters

We take your privacy and data security seriously. Here’s how we keep your information safe:

Security
Your data is safeguarded through encrypted storage, monitored systems, and immediate breach notification if ever required.

Limited Access
Only thoroughly vetted staff and trusted honest brokers are allowed to view participant information.

Compliance
Every step follows strict policies, with informed consent from participants and signed researcher agreements.

Confidentiality
Your data is de-identified and treated with the highest level of privacy protection at every step.