Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the old test and the new test? A: The old test was simply an eye test. In addition to being based on peer-reviewed medical science, the new test offers a much more comprehensive package which includes: an advanced analysis of your symptoms and VCS test which results in a Biotoxin Illness Risk Score (BIRS), pass-fail score of VCS test, color-coded graphical output for the VCS test, color-coded time trending graph for BIRS results, and color-coded time trending graph for VCS results.

Q: How much does the new on-line screening test cost and what do I get? A: A secured credit card payment of $14.95 gives users one complete symptoms and VCS test and a Biotoxin Illness Risk Score (BIRS). There are also several other packages available. If you take more than one test and would like to track your changes you get free access to all the tracking and trending features. With the purchase of at least one test, you get full access to the Shoemaker Blog (note that for now, the Shoemaker Message Board is available to everyone).

Q: Can I migrate my data from the old CNI VCS only test to this new site? A: Unfortunately not. The database for the new generation of testing offered at www.biotoxin.info is not compatible with the older site.

Q: Why does the test cost money and where does the money go? A: Well over a $100,000 was spent on research and test development. Fees collected from the test go directly back into Biotoxin Illness research, and into supporting those doctors, scientists, biostatisticians, and software developers that are doing the work. So when you purchase a test(s), you are directly and indirectly helping to support the work being done, as well as potentially helping yourself. Your support is critical, and we thank you!

Q: Who will prescribe medications when/if necessary? A: You can take the treatment protocols to your physician and request treatment. You also have the option of requesting an office visit with Dr. Shoemaker. Medications can only be prescribed after seeing a physician in person.

Q: Are office visits or prescriptions included in my fee paid to www.biotoxin.info? A: Neither office visits nor medications are covered by any fees you pay at this website for the BIRS test or other products offered on this site.

Q: Does my insurance cover this service? A: We cannot charge any fees for our website products or the on-line test to your insurance company at this time. Many insurance companies, however, will cover the cost of office visits.

Q: What are your system requirements for taking the VCS Exam online? A: A web browser is all that is required.

More Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have had these symptoms for a long period of time. How come I have never heard of the BIRS screeing test or Biotoxin Illness before? A: This is a relatively new area of medical research. You can review articles on the new BIRS test, the VCS test and our biotoxin-induced illness paradigm in our Reference Section. We are currently working on papers to expand the paradigm of multiple system symptoms, VCS deficits and how to treat these biotoxin related illnesses. As an aside, the Navy has used the VCS test to evaluate the potential for chemical exposure for years.

Q: If I purchase a package with more than one VCS test, can 2 or more family members take the tests? A: In order to keep the VCS and preliminary test result files associated with the correct person, it necessary for each person to take the tests under their own registered user name. Since VCS test purchases are associated with a particular user name, only that person should take tests from that package. Contact us for a discount for packages for 3 or more family members. We have also added tracking and trending functionality so it is best for each person to take the test under their own account so they can follow their own progress.

Q: What role does the VCS test play in the analysis? A: The VCS test result is only one part of the new test. The non-linear combination and weighing of certain symptoms along with the VCS test result can be used as a very reliable (>99.5%)screening test for Biotoxin Illness. Our articles, listed in the Reference Section, discuss and cite the literature on use of the VCS test in neurotoxicity. Our research subsequently indicated that many types of biotoxins cause the VCS deficit and induce chronic illness, and that the treatment protocol, developed by Dr. Shoemaker, can successfully restore good health. Current research indicates that many biotoxins upregulate proinflammatory cytokines, causing internal inflammation, symptoms and chronic illness.

Q: How do I take the on-line screening test? A: You answer some symptom related questions and then take the VCS eye exam, which is a vision test that you can take in about 15-20 minutes online, here at www.biotoxin.info. In order to do so, you need to register (to get a login id and password) and purchase a test(s).

Q: Do I need to prepare in any way for the VCS Exam? A: You don't need to do anything to prepare yourself for taking the VCS test. However, you may need to get your computer ready. There are some computer requirements to be able to successfully take the VCS test.