Let's Get Checked? More Like, Let's Get Correct Information!
The class-action lawsuit was filed by TruthCures, a nonprofit committed to education about Lyme disease, against Lets Get Checked
When you hear a company name like "LetsGetChecked" it inspires confidence. It seems to promise a quick, easy, and reliable way to get your health checked out. But if you're depending on their at-home Lyme disease tests, that confidence could be seriously misplaced.
"LetsGetChecked" is currently under fire, facing a class action that alleges its Lyme disease tests are "shockingly" inaccurate. The lawsuit, initiated by TruthCures, a non-profit dedicated to Lyme disease education, claims that LetsGetChecked has falsely promoted its finger-prick tests as a comprehensive solution to diagnose Lyme disease.
The funny thing is, the tests are anything but comprehensive. According to the complaint, the test can only detect one type of Borrelia bacteria, while dozens of strains cause Lyme disease. So, the test isn't just limited, it's "one-note" – it can only play one tune, while Lyme disease is an entire symphony of bacterial strains.
Moreover, LetsGetChecked is accused of concealing crucial information. They don’t tell consumers that Lyme disease diagnosis must include a consultation and examination by a healthcare provider based on physical symptoms, not just the test results. It's like buying a car but only getting the keys and not the actual vehicle.
What is the impact of this inaccuracy? A positive test result is correct only 58% to 85% of the time, according to a report from the FDA. As for a negative result, it "should not be used to exclude Lyme disease". Imagine flipping a coin to determine if you have a potentially debilitating illness. That's hardly the level of accuracy we deserve when it comes to our health.
The stakes are high, too. Lyme disease, if left untreated, can cause serious health complications, including chronic pain, cognitive dysfunction, cardiac arrest, and debilitating fatigue. Misleading test results could delay seeking necessary medical attention, and that's a delay none of us can afford.
So, next time you see "LetsGetChecked", remember that the name might be more fitting as "LetsGetChecked...But Maybe Not Accurately". The lawsuit against the company seeks to represent all who purchased LetsGetChecked's Lyme disease test, and not just for a chuckle at the unfortunate irony, but for the serious implications this has on consumer health and trust.
As for the folks at LetsGetChecked, maybe it's time they checked their own practices. After all, you can't afford to drop the ball in the game of health.