What does a genetic consultant do?
Genetic counselors assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. They provide information and support to other healthcare providers, or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions.
Why might someone have a genetic consultation?
The reasons that a person might be referred to a genetic counselor, medical geneticist, or other genetics professional include: A personal or family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, chromosomal disorder, or hereditary cancer. Two or more pregnancy losses (miscarriages), a stillbirth, or a baby who died.
How much does a genetics consult cost?
At a genetic consultation, it might be determined that genetic testing is required. This typically costs from $150 to $3,000, depending on the type of testing required. It usually is covered by health insurance. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services[1] offers a guide to better understanding genetic testing.
What happens at a genetic counseling appointment?
What happens during an appointment with a genetic counselor? Your genetic counselor will ask about your personal medical history and the results of any cancer screening tests. Then they will look at your family’s cancer history. The counselor will map out your family tree and include at least 3 generations.
What questions does a genetic counselor ask?
Questions you might ask your genetic counselor
- Does the disease in question run in families?
- If my family member has a disease, might I get it?
- If I have a disease, are my family members at risk of getting it?
- Is any kind of genetic testing available?
- What kind of information can genetic testing give me?
Do doctors recommend genetic testing?
Genetic testing is useful in many areas of medicine and can change the medical care you or your family member receives. For example, genetic testing can provide a diagnosis for a genetic condition such as Fragile X or information about your risk to develop cancer. There are many different kinds of genetic tests.
What does a genetic test show?
Genetic testing involves examining your DNA, the chemical database that carries instructions for your body’s functions. Genetic testing can reveal changes (mutations) in your genes that may cause illness or disease.
How long does genetic testing take?
How long will it take to get my genetic test results? The amount of time depends on the specific test that was ordered. Most tests are returned within 2-3 weeks, but some may take up to 8 weeks.