Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to use Function Health?
18 years and older.
Why don't I already get tested for these when I visit my doctor?
The traditional insurance route typically requires a specific symptom or condition to warrant comprehensive testing. (We find it backward to require the existence of a condition to test for that same condition.)
To get all the tests included in your Function membership, you would need to work with a doctor willing to request these 120+ tests. Doctors rarely have the time needed to review this many tests, let alone to understand and explain your results to you. They also want to avoid creating financial burdens on their patients who may be billed for any advanced lab tests. You'd also be missing out on top doctors offering detailed recommendations based on your specific results.
Is Function available internationally?
Function is only operating in the U.S. today. Non-US residents may join Function and get tested when visiting the US.
Who needs Function?
Everyone. Even doctors universally recommend routine lab testing. Individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and health status may benefit from a Function membership. At Function, we believe knowing what is going on inside is the best way to understand your body. Whether you are healthy and fit or at-risk for a health condition, Function allows you to track how your body changes over time. We encourage individuals of all ages and backgrounds to try Function because the earlier you detect any health issue, the greater opportunity you have for prevention and treatment.
How do I get started?
Join Function here.
Does Function replace my doctor or primary care concierge membership?
No. Joining Function does not replace your doctor.
Function makes you a more powerful patient. Membership includes 120+ lab tests annually and gives you all your data alongside detailed recommendations from the world's top doctors based on each result. Showing up to your next doctor's visit with long-term diagnostics should lead to the most productive appointment possible. To speed things up, doctor's no longer have to waste time sending you out for tests as a follow-up. This makes the doctor's invaluable time more effective and empowers you to be your own advocate.
Where is Function available?
Function is available in all states, except NY, NJ and RI due to regulations. Your address submitted to Function must be specified outside NY, NJ or RI. Function is only available in the US.
Is Function an insurance plan?
No. Function is not an insurance plan. Some members couple Function with health insurance–often lower premium with higher deductible plans or any tier of PPO.
You're not required by Function to have insurance and the cost of testing is included in your membership. We like to call it Health Assurance, which works to keep you away from needing healthcare but likewise indicates when you may need to seek it.
Why hasn’t this existed before?
People have been doing comprehensive testing for years with major hurdles—working with a doctor-friend or expensive concierge practice, deciphering hard-to-read PDF's, google searching what results mean, adding numbers to spreadsheets to catch trends, and getting tests without knowing how expensive it will cost until the bill arrives. Function organizes all of this and delivers so much more—including world renowned doctor recommendations based on your results.
Does Function work with insurance?
No. If you try using insurance, your insurance company is very unlikely to cover the cost of each test. You'd likely receive a surprise bill for thousands of dollars above the cost of a Function membership. Insurance typically covers advanced testing only when there is a suspected condition. We find it backward to require the existence of a condition to test for that same condition. This traditional route would also require working with a doctor willing to request all the tests included in your Function membership. Simply put, it's easy with Function.
How does Function compare to my annual physical?
Function includes every lab test that is part of most physicals, and then goes so much further by including twice-a-year testing of over 120 tests across every major area like heart, thyroid, hormones, brain, cancers, and fertility. These are tests championed by specialists from cardiologists to oncologists.
Are Function's tests the same used by specialists?
Yes. Function brings you gold-standard lab tests trusted by specialists across fields like cardiology and endocrinology. See the full list here.
You may not recognize some of the names of these tests as many are at the leading-edge of medicine and have not yet been widely adopted by traditional primary care doctors.
When should I start Function?
Right now. Although Function will immediately show you what's happening inside your body, spotting negative and positive trends requires time. The sooner you start, the sooner you will know what is best to do for your health.
What does Function test?
List of tests here.
As promising new diagnostics are developed, they will be made available to Function members if our medical team believes they are both valid and important for revealing the deepest understanding of your health.
Why are lab tests usually so expensive?
Lab tests are rarely priced for consumers to directly purchase them. Most of the time, insurance will negotiate with a lab and pay a reduced amount off a higher price. The problem is, if insurance is not paying or negotiating the price downward, consumers are usually stuck with the high price tags on testing. For instance, the combined tests included with Function memberships could cost more than $15,000.
This is unlikely to change without companies like Function paving a new path .
How were the tests included with Function membership selected?
Leading doctors across specialties, including Function's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mark Hyman MD, have spent decades determining the correct set of comprehensive lab tests that should ideally be run routinely. Function's selection of tests reflects this deep analysis across cardiology, oncology, endocrinology and more.
How long after I join until I can get my tests?
Typically within just a few days. Once you join, we will send you an email link to schedule your first test.
Why does the full Function panel require two visits?
Your first test with Function includes over 120 biomarkers tested. Only 35mL of blood is drawn at one time for your safety which is why your test must be split into two Quest draws. For context, a blood donation is 14x more at ~500mL.
Pro tip: Being very hydrated improves blood flow and makes the test much easier and quicker.We encourage you to book your two draws within the same week for consistency in your results.
Are Function’s tests accurate?
All tests are processed in CLIA and CAP certified labs by our trusted lab partner Quest Diagnostics, a Fortune 500 clinical laboratory.
Your blood and urine samples are collected by their licensed medical technicians on-site and processed in their state-of-the-art labs. Quest is the safest and most accurate way to be tested given the advanced processing needs for the wide range of tests Function offers.
Should I avoid seafood prior to my test?
It is suggested to avoid consuming seafood 48 hours prior to any test that includes heavy metals. For example, there may be mercury in tuna and arsenic in shrimp.
Can I just do just one of the tests listed?
Let's test that one thing and use it as an opportunity to let you know what's happening across your whole body! If you're focused on one thing, Function members also get access to an on-demand testing menu to order individual tests anytime they need it. While healthcare commonly isolates issues to single aspects and treats the symptoms, Function was created to give you a complete perspective of what’s actually happening inside your body. Don't miss a thing.
What does Function offer around women's health?
Function is a complete approach to your whole interconnected biological system, rather than just one part of the body. Areas that Function comprehensively tests for which biological females may be particularly keen to look closely at include thyroid, heart, fertility, and hormones. Full list of tests here.
Will Function tell me if I'm metabolically unfit?
88% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy (UNC, 2018). Function measures all major markers of metabolic fitness.
Do I have to have a prescription to order a test?
No, you don't have to worry about that. Doctors authorize every test you take and review every one of your results.
Does Function test for cancer?
Yes. Function tests across your body for several markers that may indicate early signs of cancer through tests included in your membership and the on-demand Galleri test.
However, only a doctor can officially diagnose you and in most cases a follow up scan would be performed.
Does Function test my heart health?
Yes. Function goes deep on your cardiac health. Your membership tests the traditional lipid panel, but then goes so much further with advanced tests like Lipoprotein A, Apolipoprotein B, and Lipoprotein Particle Size. The smartest cardiologists today agree that traditional lipid panels are an incomplete way to monitor your cardiac health. Function is at war with heart disease, the leading cause of American deaths.
Will Biotin affect my results?
Biotin (Vitamin B7) may affect results for the following tests: Testosterone, Cortisol, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, T3, T4, Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Estradiol, and Luteinizing Hormone. Some choose to stop taking biotin 72 hours prior to testing.
Will Function tell me which foods in which I'm allergic? How about gluten or dairy?
Yes. Function tests you for allergies across a wide spectrum of foods, including dairy and gluten. Full list of tests here.
What if I have a history of fainting during blood collection?
It is important that you work with a trained phlebotomist. All Function tests are performed at a Quest Diagnostics location, where the phlebotomists are trained and likely used to working with those who faint. It is not recommended to use any at-home finger prick test, which is not part of Function's offering.
Will being diagnosed with COVID-19 or getting the COVID-19 vaccine affect my Function results?
Science is still learning how COVID effects your body. Function offers the deepest look into the current state of your health. This is helpful for identifying issues that may have arisen recently. It also tracks both current and future tests to show you how your body is changing over time. With all viral infections and vaccinations, there is the possibility of an immune response and a resulting increase in inflammation. This means that you could experience temporary elevations in your inflammation markers (e.g. hs-CRP) and white blood cell count. Therefore, it is common to wait two weeks after vaccination before a test. Note the degree of these immune responses vary between individuals.
Does Function test for heavy metals in my body?
Yes. Function includes a complete set of the common problematic heavy metals including mercury, lead, arsenic, copper, and others. See the full list here.
How do I make an appointment for my lab visit at Quest Diagnostics?
After signing up for Function, you will receive an email with a link to schedule a time that's convenient for you. Appointments typically last 10 minutes.
How often should I be tested?
At least twice a year. Your Function membership includes the following tests:
• One annual complete set of 120+ advanced lab tests
• One mid-annual set of 30+ core lab tests
• Access to on-demand menu to get any test, anytime
• Access to try the latest developments in diagnostics
Tests always include recommendations from top doctors based on your results.
Do you offer at-home test kits (e.g. finger prick)?
No. The large number of tests included with your Function membership would not work via self-collect, at-home kits. The option of offering self-collect test kits (e.g. finger prick) that you mail-in was explored for single tests. However, we found the ongoing issues with specimen integrity, specimen size, temperature control, ambient particle exposure, time delay, human tissue damage due to improper finger pricks, and instructions-adherence.
Can I get tested if I am pregnant or nursing?
If you're pregnant or nursing, consult with your doctor before getting our full panel of tests. Note that some of your results may be effected by pregnancy.
Can I add a test after I setup a round of tests?
We are unable to make changes to any round of tests once it is set. However, it's easy to get an additional test from your on-demand menu. This will be a separate order, but may be drawn around the same time as your scheduled test.
Do I need to fast?
It is required that you fast at least 8 hours before tests. It is also strongly recommended to be well-hydrated to ensure easier blood draws and the most accurate urinalysis. If you do not fast, some of your biomarkers will be inaccurate. We also recommend a morning test for the most accurate results related to hormones such as testosterone and cortisol.
How do I schedule a test?
Once you join, we will email you a link to schedule your first test through Quest Diagnostics.
Does Function test for STI's?
Yes. Test for STI's anytime for a small additional charge via the on-demand test menu exclusively available to members.
Does Function test for Alzheimer's?
Yes. Function can tell you if you have specific genes connected to a greater probability of Alzheimer's onset through our on-demand Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) Genotype test.
What does Function offer around men's health?
Function is a complete approach to your whole interconnected biological system, rather than a single part of the body. Areas that Function comprehensively tests which biological males may be particularly keen to look closely at include prostate, testosterone, and heart. Full list of tests here.
Does Function accept insurance or healthcare savings account (HSA/FSA) payments?
Yes. You can pay with your flex account card when signing up. Email us at hello@functionhealth.com for an itemized receipt if you need that.
What additional tests can I select?
Individuals from wide range of backgrounds and health status may benefit from a Function membership. At Function, we believe knowing what is going on inside is the best way to understand your body. Whether you're healthy and fit or at-risk for a health condition, Function allows you to track how your body changes over time. We encourage individuals of all ages and backgrounds to try Function because the earlier you detect any health issue, the greater opportunity you have for prevention and treatment.
Do I have to use my real name on my Function account?
Yes. You will need to show your ID during lab visits and it must be an exact match in order to be tested.
Why get tested at Quest?
Quest is reliably setup with the equipment needed to properly collect your blood and urine samples. The tests Function membership includes are advanced and require an array of methods of preparation and storage.
How long does a lab visit take?
An average lab visit take 10 minutes if you're on time. Quest's new system allows you to schedule a specific time so there's no more waiting. Your first annual test will require two lab visits to complete all tests.
I just had tests done a few months ago. Should I wait?
It is not recommended to use older lab tests to understand your current health. Your health is ever-changing. Function makes it easy to get updated tests done frequently and anytime. Your Function results indicate your current state and compare it with past results to reveal trends.
Do I need to stop taking my supplements or medications before the test?
It is recommended that you do not discontinue any medication or supplements without discussing with a doctor first.
How much blood do I have to give per visit?
Although Function includes over 120 tests semi-annually, only 35ML of blood is drawn at one time to keep things easy. For context, a blood donation is 14x more at ~500mL.
Pro tip: Being very hydrated improves blood flow and makes the test much easier and quicker.
Do I need insurance to use Function?
No. Function is insurance-free.
Why do I need to 'test everything every six months'?
Function helps you understand how your body is 'functioning' over time. By seeing changes across specific intervals, it's easier to better understand where your health may be going, Knowing your body like this gives you the power to positively change your health's future. Most of the time, getting a test looks at only a single point-in-time.
Judging your health solely against a range assumes your unique biology is just like the average of others. Being 'out-of-range' may in fact be normal for you. Comparing your results over time creates a whole new set of invaluable data with a personal benchmark. Ongoing testing and iterative change is the new standard in how people take control of their ever-changing health.
Where do I get my blood drawn?
Function partnered with Quest Diagnostics, who has 2,250+ patient service centers nationwide, conveniently within 10 miles of almost every home in the United States. Lab visits are not permitted in NY, NJ or RI due to regulations.
Will Function tell me if I'm fertile?
Function includes a complete set of biomarkers related to fertility, and many more that can directly impact fertility. However, you will need to work with your doctor to determine your fertility based on your results. Note, if you are on hormonal birth control, some fertility markers are not tested given birth control will likely skew results.
Does a Function doctor review my results?
Yes. Licensed doctors both authorize your tests and reviews every result.
What if one of my results is an emergency?
A healthcare provider will call you immediately if there is a critical result.
How does Function apply AI to my data?
Over time, Function applies machine learning algorithms atop your lab test results to uncover that which humans are likely to miss. We create millions of combinations of your data to reveal early warning signs of disease, causal relationships and hidden trends.
The medical community typically performs comprehensive tests only when they suspect something is wrong. This limited data at random intervals has made it difficult to meaningfully apply artificial intelligence to diagnostics and make your individual health more predictive. Most insights right now come from averages across large populations. With Function, you are building a long term data set of your unique health that can unlock a new level of intelligence specifically about you. The longer you test, the greater the insights become.
Do I have access to speak with doctors?
A Function doctor will call you if there are any emergency results. Otherwise, you can download your results and share with a doctor of your choice anytime.
Function's currently focused on empowering you with easy comprehensive testing, and insights from the world's top doctors based on your specific results.
Will I get a PDF of my results each time I test?
Yes. We always provide you with a PDF from our lab partner Quest Diagnostics. Soon, you'll be able to give doctors or loved ones permission to view your results directly inside Function.
Can Function diagnose me?
No. While the tests included with your Function membership are the same as those trusted by the broader medical community, only a licensed doctor can officially diagnose you.
What can Function tell me that my genetics cannot?
Your genetics is believed to account for less than 20% of your health, meaning over 80% is determined by your exposome. Your exposome is the measure of all the exposures of over your lifetime. This includes environment, diet, stress, and more. Function performs lab tests that mostly measure how you are responding to your exposome. There are also a small handful of genetic tests we offer, including tests like ApoE which examines the presence of genetic markers for increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
What happens if I believe a test is a false positive or false negative?
As with any diagnostic, in rare cases false positives and false negatives may occur. You may purchase a re-test with your on-demand menu if you or your doctor with to double-check something.
Are there ever errors with my lab tests?
On rare occasions, lab tests will have errors. That is true of any diagnostic. In the event that a test fails and no result is given, Function will offer you the chance to be re-tested.
If results are abnormal by forgetting to fast or hydrate, this does not mean they are erroneous. Instead, it likely reflects a value outside of your norm due to the circumstances.
Abnormalities are just one reason why Function members establish a baseline. Go beyond a single snapshot and find trends that help tell the whole story of your body. Aim to understand and then create your own health's future.
Do my biomarkers fluctuate naturally frequently?
Your body is ever-changing. Your eating, sleeping, stress and outdoor exposure all impact your body. Regular testing allows you to understand how your health is changing and therefore what you can do to improve it.
If I'm on hormonal birth control, what fertility tests are done?
Function will run nearly all hormone related tests, like Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Triiodothyronine (T3) Free, Thyroxine (T4) Free, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), and more. The tests that will be excluded are Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Estradiol, and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
I'm trying to conceive, what can Function tell me?
Function measures the primary fertility hormones in women and men. These are critical for those trying to conceive. See the list here. You will need to work with your doctor to discuss your fertility based on your results.
Note, if you are on hormonal birth control, some fertility markers are not tested given birth control greatly skews results.
If you have a regular period, you will have to get tested on day 3 of your cycle for the most optimal result.
Beyond the obvious tests directly related to fertility, other tests that are part of your Function membership can impact decisions around conceiving, including various cancers and heavy metal toxicities.
Does Function integrate with my Oura, Whoop, Apple Health or other services?
Not yet. Stay tuned.
Where do Function's personalized insights come from?
Your test results include explanations and insights pertaining to your unique result. This information comes from an array of the world's top doctors, including Function's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mark Hyman MD. All information is also backed by published, peer-reviewed scientific studies from the NIH, JAMA, NEJM, and others.
I'm concerned about my results. Is there a doctor I can speak with?
Don't worry, a Function doctor will call you promptly if there are any emergency results. Every test result is well-explained and includes personalized recommendations from the world's top doctors based on your results.
Can I share my results with my doctor?
Yes. You can download a results PDF to share with a doctor. You will see this when you login after your test results have arrived.
Will Function explain to me why I feel the way I do?
Function is designed to bust your biases and move you past the symptom small talk. Your test results should be illuminating. At times, answers may leave you with more questions. This is all part of a health journey.
Can I submit my Function membership for reimbursement with my insurance?
Function is an insurance-free membership. Insurance re-imbursement is not an option.
Why is Function a 10 year membership?
Ten years of testing establishes a long-term baseline. It reveals positive and negative trends in your body to give you a deeper understanding of the trajectory of your health. It also allows you to collect enough data to benefit from advances in AI and machine learning. A ten year membership period aligns everyone with a long term approach to creating your best possible health. Membership is billed annually (not 10 years up front!) and you can cancel anytime.
Can I share my membership with my partner?
We do not currently offer shareable memberships. Members receive three invites to join Function's early access, which you can give to your partner.
How do I get early access to Function?
Join our waitlist here. If you have a friend who is already a Function member, ask for one of their invites.
Why is Function early access only?
We are currently in beta and plan to launch to the public soon.
Can I buy a Function membership for a friend?
Yes. Countless studies show health is best achieved together in community. Function makes it easy to gift someone a membership. Go here.
How do I schedule a re-test?
Once you've joined Function, click "Get New Test" after you login.
I'm a Function member. How do I invite a friend to get early access to Function?
Check your email. If you don't see invites for friends, email hello@functionhealth.com.
What does membership price include?
Your Function membership includes the following:
• One annual complete set of 120+ advanced lab tests
• One mid-annual set of 30+ core lab tests
• Access to on-demand menu to get any test, anytime
• Access to try the latest developments in diagnostics
Tests always include recommendations from top doctors based on your results.
What does your Health Portfolio do for you?
After your first test, you will receive a Health Portfolio that stores all your results over time. It also includes recommendations for each unique result and any future AI / ML insights. Getting to know your Health Portfolio is like getting a PhD in your own body.
How do I schedule an on-demand test?
The Function member's on-demand test menu gives you freedom to test anytime. Prices are heavily discounted (e.g. full sexual health panel for $29.00). Login and click "Get New Test" to select a test(s) you wish to receive.
How do I cancel my membership?
Cancel anytime. Email hello@functionhealth.com to cancel.
How do I change the email address associated with my account?
Email hello@functionhealth.com with your request.
If I cancel my Function membership, can I receive a refund?
You can cancel your Function annual membership anytime. Function does not offer refunds for prior payments.
Does Function have an affiliate program?
If you are interested in working with Function as an affiliate, email affiliate@functionhealth.com.
Does Function have a referral program?
Yes. As a Function member, you will receive an email with 3 invite codes to give your friends and family early access.
How does Function keep my information safe?
Function Health takes privacy extremely seriously. We use a range of the latest technical security tools and administrative measures to safeguard your data against unauthorized access or disclosure. The only way your data would be shared with third parties would be by your choice. Function Health cannot secure personal data that you release on your own or that you request us to release. Read our Privacy Statement.
Who will have access to my results?
You, the laboratory (Quest), doctors and administrators. Doctors and laboratories must report to state health authorities for disease tracking and prevalence. We do not share your results with other healthcare providers or insurance companies.
Will my results be reported to insurance companies?
No. Your biology is your data. Function makes it easy to test without specific concern for triggering higher insurance costs, especially in an uncertain legislative future.
Will the information I provide be shared with third parties?
Function is privacy-first. We do not sell your data. Given Function does not accept insurance, this means that we also do not share your data with insurance companies. Note that our doctors and the performing lab may be required by law to report some tests to state health authorities for disease tracking and prevalence. Read our Privacy Statement.
I’m a hospital or healthcare provider, how can I refer my patients to Function?
Send patients directly to this website to join. Email hello@functionhealth.com if you're a doctor wishing to refer your patient and need an invite to early access. Once tested, your patients can choose to share their results with you directly. We are currently developing ways for patients to opt-in to automatically sharing their ongoing test results with the healthcare providers they specify.
Do you work with employers?
Function is here to help keep your employees healthy. Learn more here.
I’m interested in working for Function, how can I apply?
Smart idea. Go here.