COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 90
State DAT Laws
While federal regulations provide the foundation, implementation
varies by state, with most states now supporting direct access
testing either fully or partially [8].
The Practical Reality of Lab Access
Direct Access Testing and the Consumer Revolution
Direct Access Testing (DAT) refers to the legal ability of individuals
to obtain laboratory testing without a physician's order. DAT
empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their
health and is legally supported by federal law, with
implementation varying by state. This shift began to gain traction
after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
emphasized individuals' rights under HIPAA to access their own lab
results without delay [5].
As of 2025, over 35 states support DAT fully, while others permit
partial access depending on the type of test or the laboratory
provider. Some states, like Arizona, Texas, and Colorado, have
been leaders in expanding DAT laws [4]. These laws often require
labs to use a "medical director" or ordering physician as part of the
system4a role fulfilled by networks contracted through
companies like:
● Life Extension
● Ulta Lab Tests
● ZRT Laboratory
● DirectLabs
● Everlywell
● Rupa Health
● Evexia Diagnostics
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