{"id":1608,"date":"2026-05-14T03:26:45","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T03:26:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.whiddon.com.au\/yourlife\/?p=1608"},"modified":"2026-05-14T03:34:43","modified_gmt":"2026-05-14T03:34:43","slug":"what-is-pharmacogenomic-testing-a-new-standard-for-personalised-aged-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.whiddon.com.au\/yourlife\/what-is-pharmacogenomic-testing-a-new-standard-for-personalised-aged-care\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Pharmacogenomic Testing: A New Standard for Personalised Aged Care"},"content":{"rendered":"

For many older Australians, the daily routine of taking multiple tablets is a common reality, yet the way they affect the body can vary significantly from one person to the next. At Whiddon<\/strong><\/a>, we believe that understanding these differences is the key to providing truly dignity-led aged care.<\/p>\n

Through an Australian-first pharmacogenomics (PGx) clinical trial<\/strong><\/a>, we are exploring how genetic insights can move us away from a traditional “one size fits all” approach to prescribing. By looking at the unique DNA of our residents, we are working to ensure that medication is safer, more effective, and tailored to the individual.<\/p>\n

Learn more about Whiddon PGx<\/a><\/div>\n

The Basics of Pharmacogenomics<\/h2>\n

Pharmocogenomics is an innovative field that combines pharmacology (the study of medicines) and genomics (the study of genes). Essentially, your DNA contains instructions for building proteins that determine how your body processes different medications.<\/p>\n

Because our genetic makeup is unique, we all process drugs differently. By identifying our unique way of processing drugs through a simple test, prescribers can tailor the best type of medication and the right dose for each individual.<\/p>\n

A Simple and Non-Invasive Process<\/h2>\n

One of the most significant benefits of pharmacogenomic testing is how easily it can be integrated into a resident’s daily routine. Unlike many traditional medical tests that may require blood samples or hospital visits, this process is entirely non-invasive. A simple swab is taken from the inside of the cheek and then sent for analysis by our research partners.<\/p>\n

This ease of access is a vital part of our commitment to dignity-led care<\/strong><\/a>. Because the test is quick and comfortable, it allows us to gather essential biological insights without causing distress or disruption to a resident’s day.<\/p>\n

Why This Matters for Aged Care<\/h2>\n

The need for a precise and personalised approach to medicine is particularly evident in aged care, where health needs are often complex. This precision is critical because older bodies often navigate unique changes and complex medication schedules that require careful oversight.<\/p>\n