The Hidden Power of PGx Testing in Nursing Homes

Medication challenges are part of everyday life in long-term care. Older adults often take multiple prescriptions, and even small mismatches in how a drug works for one resident versus another can lead to side effects, confusion, or avoidable hospital trips. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing helps identify how a resident’s body is likely to process certain medications, giving care teams clearer insight into which drugs may not work well — and which ones could pose a higher risk.

For nursing homes, that insight has real clinical impact. When medication plans are aligned with how a resident metabolizes their medications, adverse drug events can drop significantly. Studies in high-risk, polypharmacy groups show large reductions in short-term rehospitalizations and emergency visits when medication choices are guided by PGx. Fewer adverse reactions mean more stable residents, smoother recoveries, and less time spent troubleshooting crises rooted in medication issues.

The operational benefit is just as valuable. Every avoided hospital transfer protects staff time, reduces stress on the care team, and supports stronger quality performance measures. While PGx isn’t a magic button, it’s a practical tool that gives facilities more control over outcomes that often feel unpredictable. For nursing homes focused on improving safety, reducing avoidable readmissions, and delivering steadier, more personalized care, PGx testing offers a clear and compelling advantage.