For Participants
How is this different from Everlywell or LetsGetChecked?
We're a non-profit. We price at cost — not at markup. And your anonymized data contributes to open research instead of being locked in a corporate database. The test science is comparable; the model is fundamentally different.
Is this a diagnostic test?
No. OpenBaseline provides wellness testing for informational purposes. A licensed physician reviews all test orders, but we do not diagnose or treat conditions. We recommend sharing your results with your healthcare provider for clinical interpretation.
How is my privacy protected?
All research data is de-identified per HIPAA Safe Harbor standards — 18 categories of identifying information are removed. Your individual results are accessible only to you through your secure portal. Your anonymized contribution to the research dataset cannot be traced back to you.
Can I participate if I live in California, Maryland, or New York?
We're working on it. Some states have restrictions on direct-to-consumer testing that require a licensed practitioner to order the test. Check back for updates as we navigate these requirements.
How often should I test?
We recommend quarterly for the first year to establish your personal baseline, then annually for ongoing monitoring. Longitudinal data — seeing how your levels change over time — is far more valuable than any single snapshot.
Do I need a doctor's order?
No. Like other direct-to-consumer wellness testing services, OpenBaseline has a contracted licensed physician who authorizes testing. However, we strongly recommend sharing your results with your healthcare provider.
For Researchers
What format is the data in?
Parquet (primary), CSV, and JSON. The API returns JSON. All formats include complete data dictionaries and codebooks.
Is the data IRB-approved for research use?
Yes. Our data collection protocol is reviewed by our IRB partner. Researchers using the data for their own studies may need additional IRB approval from their institution — the de-identified nature of the dataset may qualify for exempt review.
How large is the dataset?
Growing. Our pilot targets 500 participants in the Portland metro area. We publish exact sample sizes with each quarterly data release.
Can I request specific variables?
Premium tier subscribers can request additional questionnaire fields for targeted studies. We evaluate requests based on scientific value, participant burden, and privacy implications.
For Supporters
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. OpenBaseline is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. EIN forthcoming.
How can I get involved beyond donating?
Join our advisory board, volunteer for community outreach, refer researchers or corporate partners, or simply spread the word. Contact us to learn more.