What to Expect with Genetic Counseling and Testing

Genetic counseling is the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. This process integrates:

• Collection and interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence.
• Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources and research.
• Counseling to promote informed choices and adaptation to the risk or condition.

Visit http://www.nsgc.org for more information about cancer genetics.

What to expect from my visit?

At the time of scheduling the appointment for the first visit, a second consult appointment will be schedule to review the test results.  During the patient's initial visit to the clinic, a genetic counselor will include a review of the personal and family medical history, a discussion of the role genes play in the development of cancer, and basic genetic concepts.  A personalized risk assessment for hereditary cancer, a description of the genetic testing process, as well as information about cancer risk reduction and prevention strategies are discussed in detail. The family history is carefully assessed and the risk of carrying a mutation is determined and fully discussed.

Most health insurance plans pay for these tests, but not all do.  We will help with the preauthorization process and determine the level of insurance coverage for testing.  If you have an HMO insurance, it is your responsibility to obtain a referral for genetic testing prior to our ability to check with your insurance (Two office visits are needed with Dr. Dana Zakalik).

An appointment with the Cancer Genetics Program consists of a consult with both a genetic counselor and physician, and possibly a blood draw, if testing is pursued.  There is no need to fast prior to the blood draw.  The initial consult lasts around an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the questions that arise.   Most, but not all, insurances cover the cost of this office visit.

Test results are available in two to five weeks (depending on the test(s) ordered). Results will be discussed in details at the follow up appointment (we give test results in person, and not over the telephone). We then have a thorough discussion about future management recommendations and risk reduction strategies, as well as family dynamics.

What is the cost of testing?

The genetic tests range in cost depending on the specific gene(s) being tested, and if there is a known familial mutation.  The costs can be anywhere from $170 to $3340 (or more depending on the test ordered).  Most insurances do pay for testing, but coverage is dependent on each individual's policy.

What about genetic discrimination?

There are federal laws (HIPAA) which prohibit group-health insurance discrimination based on genetic information. There are no such laws yet for private health insurance plans, or life insurance. Most states have additional laws that prohibit such discrimination.

There are several other hereditary cancer syndromes which occur infrequently. If you have a question about whether genetic counseling and testing is right for you, or you have questions about your family history, please contact us.

To learn more, visit the Diagnosis, Treatment, Cancer Types and Clinical Trials sections of this site.