Consumer/Patient Information
What is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a psychiatric disorder which can include well-known symptoms such as persistent feelings of hopelessness, sadness, poor concentration, loss of interest or pleasure, lack of energy, inability to sleep, weight change, and recurrent thoughts of death. MDD may not always “look” like depression. It can also appear in the form of other physical ailments such as persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease, even with treatment.
While it is normal to experience occasional sadness and short periods of “ups” and “downs” in life, MDD causes a person to be overwhelmed, for extended periods of time, by these feelings. This makes it difficult to feel, act, or look happy.
MDD is a mental disorder that is thought to be both caused by and causes measurable physical changes in a person’s body chemistry. Medical science is able to identify and measure these physical/chemical changes.
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What is the MDDScore?
MDDScore is a simple blood test that can aid in the diagnosis of Major Depressive disorder (MDD). The MDDScore looks at a combination of 10 biochemicals from four different biological pathways in the body.
Blood levels of these individual body chemicals are measured and then entered into a unique mathematical equation to obtain a single test score. This score represents the person’s likelihood of having MDD.
The test result is intended to be used as an aid in the diagnosis and management of MDD and in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory information.
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How can the MDDScore help diagnose my condition?
Traditionally mental health problems have been diagnosed through patient interview and observation. These methods are considered “subjective”—meaning they are based on opinions or feelings rather than on facts or evidence.
New breakthroughs in science have made it possible to create the MDDScore which is an “objective” (free of any bias or prejudice caused by personal feelings) way to aid in the diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD).
The MDDScore is not meant to completely replace traditional interview methods but to add an objective, unbiased element that compliments the patient interview or exam.
The addition of this objective blood test to your healthcare provider’s diagnostic tool kit provides a number of benefits:
- Provides biological evidence to support a diagnosis
- Helps you and your loved ones better understand your medical condition
- Increases confidence and acceptance in your diagnosis
- Empowers you to accept and manage your disorder
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What does the MDDScore mean to me and my healthcare provider?
MDDScore provides an objective biological result that you and your healthcare provider can use as an aid in your diagnosis.
Following the testing of your blood sample, your healthcare provider will receive a report describing your test results. He/she will then evaluate the results along with other clinical and laboratory information. You and your provider can then decide how to proceed with your treatment plan.
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How do I get the MDDScore?
The MDDScore must be ordered by a physician. A Ridge Diagnostics test requisition form is completed by your physician and you then visit one of the Ridge Diagnostics contracted blood draw facilities to complete the simple blood draw.
Laboratory draw sites across the country can collect specimens to be shipped for testing to our laboratory in North Carolina. Upon completion of your test, your healthcare provider will receive a report describing your personalized MDDScore result.
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How much does the MDDScore cost and is it covered by insurance?
Most insurance companies are reimbursing for the test. The list price of the MDDScore is $745.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go to get the test?
The MDDScore must be ordered by a physician. A Ridge Diagnostics test requisition form is completed by your physician and you then visit one of the Ridge Diagnostics contracted blood draw facilities to complete the simple blood draw.
Laboratory draw sites across the country can collect specimens to be shipped for testing at our laboratory in North Carolina. Upon completion of your test, your healthcare provider will receive a report describing your personalized test results.
How much does the MDDScore cost?
If you are paying directly (as opposed to using insurance) please contact Ridge Diagnostics for payment options and discount programs. The list price of the MDDScore is $745.
Does insurance cover the test?
Most insurance companies are reimbursing for the test.
If insurance reimburses for the test, you may be billed for any unpaid balance. Please contact Ridge Diagnostics for more information.
Ridge Diagnostics will bill your medical insurance plan directly on your behalf. However, a number of factors affect the amount covered based on your specific plan, co-pay, deductibles etc. If the claim is denied on first review, we can assist in providing any additional information requested as well as help in appealing this denial.
In some cases when all appeals are exhausted and the claim is not fully paid, you may be responsible for any balances remaining on the invoice.
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