If you’ve ever tried to follow through on a medical test and felt lost somewhere between “Order Now” and “What happens next?” - you are absolutely not alone.
I’ve spoken with many patients who want the Galleri multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test but feel stuck on the logistics:
Where do I go to get my blood drawn?
Do I wait for a kit in the mail?
What if something shows up—who helps me understand what to do?
When a process feels vague or complicated, it’s natural to hit pause or give up entirely. But this test is far too important to lose to confusion. So let me walk you through exactly how it works, step-by-step.
No mystery. No jargon. Just clarity.
Option 1: Schedule a Virtual Visit
Before anything is ordered, we talk.
Whether you’ve heard about the Galleri test for the first time or have been considering it for a while, we’ll meet in a secure telemedicine appointment. A clinician will explain what the test does, who it’s right for, and what it can and can’t tell us.
If you decide it’s a good fit, we’ll place the order for you through our trusted clinical partner lab.
Option 2: Submit an MCED Request
If your self-assessment test determines that you are at risk, or if you just want the comfort of test results, you may request that we order a test without having to go through the hoop of a virtual visit. So long as you meet the requirements for the test, we will send you orders.
Factors that would cause the denial of your MCED test request:
Active Cancer Diagnosis or Treatment
People currently being treated for cancer (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, etc.) or with a known cancer diagnosis usually are not candidates, because the test is designed for early detection, not monitoring existing cancer.
Recent History of Cancer Treatment
Those in active surveillance or within a few years of cancer treatment should factor in that residual DNA from treated cancers could lead to false positives. While the peace of mind that comes from a negative test can be profound, recent cancer patients must understand that false positives are increased in this population. This information can help you decide if you want to take the test.
If a positive is detected, then further testing would be recommended to be sure that it is just due to residual cells from successfully treated cancer, and that there is no active cancer.
The cutoff varies, but often, three years cancer-free is what it takes to reduce any likelihood of false-positive readings back to baseline.
Pregnancy
Pregnant individuals are generally excluded because fetal DNA can confound results.
Younger Age Groups
The Galleri test is intended for adults 50+ (or adults 40+ with risk factors). Younger individuals without risk factors are usually not advised to take it yet, though some exceptions apply.
Known Genetic Cancer Syndromes (sometimes)
Individuals with high-risk genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1/2) may already be under intensive screening protocols, and Galleri is not a replacement for that.
Poor general health / terminal illness
People with limited life expectancy or serious unrelated illnesses are often advised against screening that won’t impact care decisions.
Not Strict Exclusions, But Considerations
Inflammatory conditions / autoimmune disease
These don't automatically exclude you, but may be discussed with your provider because they can potentially affect test results.
Recent major surgery or trauma
Sometimes deferred temporarily due to the release of cell-free DNA from healing tissues.
Step 2: Blood Draw—On Your Terms
Once the order is placed, you’ll have options for the blood draw, depending on your location and mobility:
- Local Draw Site: Galleri partners with high-quality labs across the country. I’ll help you find the closest participating draw center near your home.
- In-Home Phlebotomy (in many areas): If you prefer the convenience of staying home, we can arrange for a certified technician to come to you.
- Draw at the Vitality Medicine Clinic (if you’re local): For Big Island residents, we may be able to do the draw in our office.
There’s no complicated kit assembly; you don’t have to ship anything yourself. The draw site handles the logistics of getting your sample to the lab securely and promptly.
Step 3: Your Results Come to Me - Not Just a Portal
You don’t have to worry about deciphering results alone or refreshing a portal every few hours.
The test results are sent directly to Dr. Sally. We compare them with your full health picture, history, and any relevant risk factors - and then schedule a dedicated follow-up visit to explain everything in plain language.
- If the result shows no cancer signal, we’ll explain what that means, how reliable that finding is, and what to do moving forward.
- If a signal is detected, we'll help you understand what it means, how confident the test is in identifying the cancer’s likely origin, and your next steps. You won’t be left to navigate that alone.
We’ll create a clear, calm, compassionate plan—whether that involves confirming with additional imaging, consulting a specialist, or simply re-testing later.
Step 4: You're Never Left Wondering "Now What?"
One of the most common concerns I hear is, "What if something shows up? What do I do then?"
Here’s the honest truth: The Galleri test is designed to detect early signals, not to diagnose. That means any positive result is the beginning of a path, not the end of the road.
But you won’t walk that path alone.
For those in this screening program, we can provide helpful resources and refer you to an oncologist, functional medicine doctor, or therapist if needed.
If you want more personalized care, you’re welcome to become a primary care patient at my practice.
As your doctor, I’ll help:
- Coordinate follow-up imaging or specialty referrals
- Explain test confidence levels and cancer signal origin predictions
- Communicate with your primary care provider or oncologist if needed
- Help you access emotional and decision-making support, if the news is heavy
This is not a “drop-and-run” test. It’s a guided process, with real support at every stage.
Please note: I am not a cancer doctor. I’m a primary care physician who works with cancer patients when they are active patients in my practice, not through screening alone. We will offer you clear next steps, but comprehensive support begins when you join the practice.
What If I Have Tech Trouble or Get Confused?
We’ve built this process with simplicity in mind, but we also know new systems can be frustrating.
That’s why we provide:
- Step-by-step emailed instructions
- Direct contact with our patient coordinator for questions or rescheduling
- Phone support for those who prefer talking over typing
- Follow-ups from me if something goes off track
Your job is not to “figure it all out.” Your job is to stay curious and engaged. We’ll handle the rest.
Bottom Line: It’s Simple, It’s Safe, and You’re Supported
Ordering the Galleri test might feel like a big leap, but the steps are straightforward, and the potential payoff is profound. We’ve removed the guesswork, streamlined the process, and made sure you’re never left wondering what’s next.
Because prevention should never feel confusing. It should feel empowering.
Still have questions? Let’s walk through it together.
Schedule a short consult, and we’ll explain the process from start to finish. There is no pressure - just clarity. You deserve to feel confident in your care—every step of the way.
