According to a recent study, medical testing is a crucial step in every patient’s treatment plan. Access to various types of tests online and the ability to perform them from the comfort of one’s home makes healthcare even more accessible.
EverlyWell has set itself the goal of making medical tests simple and accessible. The company offers a wide range of tests that can be purchased and delivered to your home. After EverlyWell received an investment in an episode of “Shark Tank” in November 2017 and half a million people have now used EverlyWell’s tests, the company seems to be on the right track. With over 100,000 followers on Instagram, EverlyWell is clearly a popular online testing platform.
This review of EverlyWell tests examines EverlyWell’s scientific basis, prices, and products, as well as user opinions, to help you decide if EverlyWell could be right for you.
Overview of EverlyWell
EverlyWell was founded in 2016 by Julia Cheeks, who came up with the idea after waiting weeks for the results of expensive tests that she had to pay for out of her own pocket. What sets EverlyWell apart from other providers is the versatility of its test offerings, while its competitors tend to specialize in specific areas.
What does EverlyWell test for? The company offers 24 tests covering everything from vitamin levels to sexual health and hormones. We’ll discuss the most popular tests later in this EverlyWell review. In addition to testing, EverlyWell places a high value on privacy and only shares personal information with doctors when necessary.
In 2017, Cheeks presented the company on the TV show “Shark Tank” and caused quite a stir. He ultimately received an offer from Lori Greiner for $1 million for 5% of the company, which he accepted. The Austin, Texas-based company raised an additional $50 million from various venture capital firms in 2019 and is enjoying growing popularity among customers: half a million people have already taken EverlyWell tests.
EverlyWell strives to adhere to scientific standards in its testing. There are two levels to this: the tests and the laboratories. EverlyWell’s tests are laboratory-developed tests (LDTs), which are defined by the FDA as tests developed within a single laboratory for clinical use.
A detailed review of LDTs is beyond the scope of this EverlyWell test review, but the key point is that LDTs do not require FDA approval. Some see this as a loophole, but the FDA recognizes the importance of LDTs, and they are widely used in the United States.
Laboratory tests are subject to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments, and EverlyWell takes care to adhere to these standards. The company employs renowned medical professionals who lead the research. In addition, if customers have concerns, they can always request a third-party review of the laboratory tests from a network of state-certified physicians. This third party can also be contacted before purchasing a test.
Let’s take a look at the highlights of this EverlyWell test review:
Highlights
- Many customers mention in their reviews of EverlyWell that they appreciate the convenience of the testing process.
- The tests come with detailed instructions.
- EverlyWell’s laboratories are CLIA-certified and supported by a medical advisory board.
- Most of the 24 available tests are scientifically validated.
- Very discreet service that prioritizes privacy.
- Free shipping.
EverlyWell Sample Collection & Curated Results
As a home test, EverlyWell requires self-collection methods. Fortunately, these are generally less invasive than the collection methods used in clinics and are still supported by scientific research. This review of the EverlyWell test cannot really address all scientific aspects, but any new method that deviates from traditional clinical practices must go through EverlyWell’s validation process, and the company assures us that many of them have been in use for years.
EverlyWell’s blood tests are performed using the dried blood spot method. This method carries little risk or side effects due to the small amount of blood required for the test. It is highly accurate, meaning that the tests can often successfully obtain the needed information from the sample.
In addition, EverlyWell uses self-collection methods such as saliva, urine, vaginal swab, and stool samples. EverlyWell’s tests are reviewed to ensure they can reliably test for biomarkers, and all come with instructions on how to perform the tests correctly.
EverlyWell Test Reviews
EverlyWell offers 24 tests, too many to cover individually. Instead, this EverlyWell test overview highlights some of the most popular tests.
- Indoor and Outdoor Allergy Test
- Cholesterol and Lipid Test
- Women’s Health Test
- STD Test – Women
- Men’s Health Test
- STD Test – Men
Food Sensitivity Test Review
This EverlyWell review knows all too well how annoying constant sneezing or itching in the eyes and throat can be. When the cause is unclear, the EverlyWell Indoor & Outdoor Allergy Test aims to provide relief. It tests for allergic reactions to 14 different trees, 9 weeds, 7 grasses, 4 molds, 2 dust mites, 2 animal allergens, and 2 pests.
EverlyWell tests the immunoglobulin E reactivity in your blood sample to each of the allergens. It cannot say with certainty that the exact symptom is due to a specific allergen, but it can tell you if you react to it. Your doctor can confirm this, and avoiding these allergens could be very helpful.
Immunoglobulin E is found in our immune system and are antibodies that are formed when allergens enter the body. Essentially, they cause cells to release chemicals that physically manifest as allergic reactions.
The indoor and outdoor allergy test is performed using a blood sample taken from your finger at home with the disposable lancets provided. This may sound a little painful, but according to EverlyWell’s reputable medical opinion, it is much less uncomfortable than having blood taken from a vein in your arm. What’s more, a surprising number of people faint during the procedure. The test kit contains everything you need, including detailed instructions, a biohazard bag for returning your sample with prepaid shipping, and alcohol swabs, gauze, and bandages for cleaning your finger.
The Indoor & Outdoor Allergy Test costs $199. That’s more expensive than a regular test covered by insurance, but cheaper than without insurance (especially for a test that covers so many potential allergens). Convenience is also a nice factor, and if you hate blood draws, the finger prick offers an easier alternative.
EverlyWell Cholesterol & Lipids Test Review
The cholesterol and lipid test, which also involves a finger prick, checks three values within the cholesterol spectrum as well as total cholesterol. HDL is the good cholesterol, while LDL is the bad cholesterol. However, both are harmful in excessive amounts, as are triglycerides, the primary fat in the blood. That’s why EverlyWell tests all three values.
HDL, or high-density lipoproteins, transport cholesterol from the body back to the liver, where it is excreted from the body, which is why it is considered “good” cholesterol. LDL, or low-density lipoproteins, are the ones that typically accumulate in the arteries and deposit on the walls of blood vessels.
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and stored in fat cells. They come from calories that the body does not need[7] and are converted and stored for later use.
It may seem obvious to you why cholesterol and lipid testing is so useful. Obesity and diabetes are linked to high cholesterol levels, and these health problems are on the rise across North America. It is important to know your cholesterol and lipid levels so you can take preventive measures and prioritize your health!
The cholesterol and lipid test kit includes lancets, instructions for use, return shipping bags, and cleaning products. It costs $49, which is more expensive than a traditional home test kit. However, you have the advantage of having your test performed by a laboratory, which typically costs more than $49. As an important measure for checking your heart health, the laboratory test can give you an added sense of security.
EverlyWell Men’s Health Test Review
The EverlyWell men’s health test also requires a finger prick blood sample and a saliva sample and tests four hormone levels: cortisol, DHEA-S, estradiol, and free testosterone. The men’s test is slightly shorter, but it prides itself on the difference these hormones make.
Like the women’s version, the men’s health test includes everything you need and tests hormone levels that, when imbalanced, can lead to physical pain, irritability, or mental health issues. Since it only tests four hormones, it is less expensive at $199, but still provides a discreet insight into your overall hormonal health.
EverlyWell Test Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
Let’s get one thing straight: this review of the EverlyWell test did not look at the food intolerance test, but this is the test you will most often find when you do a search and pick a random review of an EverlyWell test. The method used (immunoglobulin G reactivity) seems dubious at best.
On Reddit, Amazon, and in longer reviews, there are a number of anecdotes from people who asked their doctors about this test and were essentially told that it does not test for food allergies. Food allergy testing can be difficult, and doctors tend to favor trial-and-error elimination strategies.
The good news is that this appears to be an exception. In general, everyone who leaves a review of EverlyWell tests is very positive about the process. Customers appreciate the privacy and simplicity of the at-home tests and report that the results are quick and easy to understand.
However, customers also report some issues with EverlyWell’s shipping. If you’re reading this review, your biggest question might be: Is EverlyWell accurate? This shouldn’t be a cause for concern, as the company takes care to adhere to scientific standards.
Are EverlyWell Tests Worth It?
This has nothing to do with it, but this hairless cat is strange and incredibly cute. Anyway. Since this is not a small investment and involves testing for medical issues, the value of EverlyWell depends heavily on necessity. If you’ve had a headache for a few days, it’s probably not worth buying a $399 hormone test. However, if you’ve been having problems for a long time or something is bothering you, EverlyWell is a good option for testing.
The value of EverlyWell also depends on the other options in your state, your insurance coverage, and your privacy preferences. Most customers are satisfied with the process and the insights they gain, so it’s definitely worth trying EverlyWell’s tests.
Where to Order EverlyWell Tests
All the tests can be purchased from EverlyWell.com. In addition, you can purchase the Food Sensitivity Test on Amazon and that along with a few others from CVS online.
FAQ
How long does it take to get EverlyWell results?
Test results are typically available within 5 business days after the sample is received by the lab. However, due to COVID-19, volume has increased, so you can now expect a wait time of up to 8 days. If you have any questions, you can always email contact@everlywell.com.
EverlyWell Shipping Policy
Shipping with EverlyWell is free, and returns and containers are included in your original order. Shipping takes 3–5 business days and is available throughout the United States, except New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, due to state regulations.
If you have questions about the shipping status of your order, we recommend contacting USPS at 1-800-275-8777 or UPS at 1-888-742-5877, depending on your shipping carrier.
EverlyWell Return Policy
For obvious reasons, an order that has already been shipped cannot be returned. EverlyWell asks that you dispose of it yourself. However, there are refund options available. If your order has not yet been shipped, you can receive a 100% refund.
If it has been shipped but less than 30 days have passed since your order and you have not yet received your results, you can receive a full refund minus $15 for shipping and handling. If the order is more than 30 days old or the results are already available, you are not eligible for a refund.
In any case, send an email to contact@everlywell.com and include your order number to make a request.
Contact EverlyWell
You can contact EverlyWell at contact@everlywell.com. Business hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST), and due to high volume, they ask that you submit inquiries up to 5 business days in advance. To facilitate processing, they ask that you provide your order number, the first and last name of the purchaser, and the shipping or billing address.
If you have questions about a sample or results, you must provide the first and last name of the person tested and their date of birth.
