Bupa offers free DNA medication check for new health insurance customers
Bupa is offering a free medication check to its new health insurance customers, allowing them to discover how their DNA affects their response to over 100 commonly prescribed medicines.
The special offer, available to anyone who buys a Bupa By You policy before 19 December 2025 either direct or through a broker, gives customers access to pharmacogenomic testing, which uses genetic insights to guide safer and more effective medical treatment.
The free DNA Medication Check, worth £195, must be used by 31 May 2026 and includes an optional virtual consultation with a Bupa GP to discuss the results.
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How the free medication check works
Pharmacogenomic testing (sometimes called PGx testing) examines genetic markers that determine how an individual’s body responds to various types of medication. Differences in metabolism can mean that a standard dose of one drug might be too strong for one person but ineffective for another. By understanding someone’s genetic makeup, pharmacogenomic testing can help healthcare providers select medications that are most likely to be effective and have fewer side effects.
According to Bupa, almost 99% of people carry at least one genetic variation that can influence how their body processes certain drugs, potentially making them more prone to side effects or reducing a medication’s effectiveness. The insurer says the test aims to help people “get the right medicine, at the right dose, first time.”
The Bupa test involves a simple home saliva sample, which customers send to a partner laboratory for analysis. A DNA analysis report will then be emailed back to them, summarising the findings. The report will identify any gene variants that could affect how their body responds to medications used for illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pain management and mental health conditions.
If the results suggest a potential issue with certain medicines, customers can book a 30-minute virtual consultation with a Bupa GP to discuss what the findings mean for their treatment options.
While pharmacogenomics remains a relatively new field, medical studies suggest that between 10% and 45% of people do not respond to common medications as expected, a figure that underscores the potential benefits of testing before prescribing medication.
Who can get the free medication check?
To qualify for the free medication check, customers must take out a Bupa By You health insurance policy either on a full underwriting or moratorium basis, including those switching from another provider. Customers can order their free Medication Check online using a booking link that will be sent to them via email or letter.
However, the test, which is powered by My Genomic Health, isn’t suitable for everyone. Those who have had a liver or kidney transplant, bone marrow or stem cell transplant, or a blood transfusion within the last four weeks are advised not to take part due to the potential for inaccurate results.
Chris Steele, founder and editor of myTribe Insurance Experts, said:
“Bupa’s latest special offer of a free DNA medication check could be a handy extra for new customers. Everyone processes medicines differently, so giving people a clearer picture of their genetic makeup can help them, and their doctors, make smarter choices about which medication works best for their body.”
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