Our scoring methodology
Every score on ProjectScreen is produced using a structured evaluation framework. This page documents exactly how that framework works.
Principles
Our methodology is built on three principles. First, scores should be reproducible — two evaluators using the same framework should arrive at similar scores. Second, scores should be honest about their own confidence — a score based on a direct test purchase is worth more than one based on a website review. Third, scores should be useful — they should help someone choose between tests, not just rank them abstractly.
Evaluation criteria
We evaluate each test across the following criteria. The weighting applied varies by test category — a fertility panel weighted heavily on biomarker coverage would be weighted differently to a single-marker screening test.
Clinical credibility
High weightIs the test clinically meaningful? Is it measuring what it claims to measure? Are the reference ranges appropriate? Is the laboratory accredited? We look at UKAS accreditation, ISO 15189 compliance, and the clinical basis for the test.
Report quality
High weightWhat do you receive when results come back? We assess clarity of presentation, whether results include reference ranges and explanations, whether out-of-range results are flagged clearly, and whether a follow-up pathway is suggested.
Collection process
Medium weightHow is the sample collected? At-home finger-prick, venous draw, urine, saliva? We assess how practical the collection process is, the risk of pre-analytical errors, and how clearly the instructions are provided.
Turnaround time
Medium weightHow long between sample receipt and results? We verify stated turnaround times against real-world reports and provider support pages where possible.
Value for money
Medium weightPrice relative to the number and clinical relevance of markers tested, quality of report, and provider reputation. A cheaper test that measures fewer markers appropriately may score higher than a premium test with unnecessary additions.
Provider reliability
Lower weightCustomer support quality, dispute resolution, history of complaints or recalls, and consistency of service. We draw on verified review sources and direct contact with providers.
Confidence scores
Every overall score on ProjectScreen carries a confidence score from 1–10. This reflects how well-evidenced our assessment is:
- 8–10
- We have directly purchased and evaluated this test. Results and report assessed first-hand.
- 5–7
- Evaluated remotely using provider documentation, verified third-party reviews, and laboratory accreditation records.
- 1–4
- Limited information available. Score should be treated as indicative only.
Ranking logic
Within any comparison group or category, tests are ranked by overall score descending, then by confidence score descending, then alphabetically. This means a highly confident moderate score ranks above a less confident high score.
On curated comparison pages, our editorial team may apply manual rank adjustments to reflect nuance that the scoring framework cannot fully capture — for example, a test that scores well overall but has a known collection reliability issue in a specific region.
Pricing data
Prices are sourced directly from provider listings and updated on a rolling basis. We do not guarantee prices are current at time of viewing — always verify on the provider's website before purchasing. Where a sale price is detected, we label it as such.
Score reviews and corrections
Scores are reviewed when a provider significantly changes their test, report, pricing or collection process. If you believe a score is materially incorrect, please contact us with the specific concern and any supporting evidence. We will review within 10 working days.