Frequently Asked Questions

WHY AM I BEING REFERRED TO GENESCREEN?

GeneScreen provides independent, unbiased genetic counseling services  to help individuals and couples understand potential genetic risks based on their personal and family history and genetic testing results.

WHAT IS A GENETIC COUNSELOR?

The National Society of Genetic Counselors states “Genetic counselors are health care professionals with specialized graduate training in the areas of medical genetics and counseling. Genetic counselors usually work as members of a healthcare team, providing information and support to individuals and families with genetic disorders, birth defects, or developmental differences, as well as individuals who may be at risk of inheriting or passing on genetic disorders. Genetic counselors can also work with your physicians or other healthcare providers to make sure your genetic information is effectively considered in your overall health care.”

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MEETING WITH A GENETIC COUNSELOR?

Genetic counselors help patients make informed, personal decisions related to their genetic health. As genetics professionals, they can help identify potential genetic health risks, give information about genetic conditions and inheritance patterns, discuss genetic testing options, help patients understand their genetic results, and provide support throughout the process.

WHAT ARE COMMON REASONS TO BE REFERRED FOR GENETIC COUNSELING?

Common reasons to be referred for genetic counseling can include, but are not limited to, the following: 

  1. Counseling regarding risks regarding future pregnancies.

  2. Review of current or previous genetic testing results.

  3. A known personal or family history of certain genetic conditions.

  4. Targeted counseling regarding a personal or family history concerning for a hereditary cancer syndrome or other specific genetic condition. 

WHAT DOES A GENETIC COUNSELING APPOINTMENT ENTAIL?

During your genetic counseling appointment, the genetic counselor will give you a basic overview of genetic concepts, such as genes and chromosomes, important to understanding how genetic testing may be relevant for you. The genetic counselor collects and draws out your family and personal medical histories in order to understand what genetic risks may be present and any testing that may be appropriate for you.

If during your consult any genetic test results are available for review, the genetic counselor will discuss those results with you in detail and answer any questions so that you have a full understanding of the implications of the results and potential impact for yourself and your family. If you have not had genetic testing ordered, the genetic counselor will recommend any appropriate testing based on your personal and family medical history and discuss possible outcomes. If you have had genetic testing ordered that does not yet have results, the genetic counselor will take the time to discuss the purpose, benefits, and limitations of the testing ordered as well as potential results so that you are better prepared.

Based on family and personal histories, along with any genetic testing results and other factors, the genetic counselor will be able to provide you with an accurate risk assessment. The genetic counselor will also be able to recommend any referral to specialists that may be appropriate. During your genetic counseling appointment, the genetic counselor will also discuss testing and counseling for other family members determined to be at risk.

By the end of your genetic counseling appointment, you will have gained a better understanding about genetics and how your personal genetics and your testing results can have an impact on your personal health management.

What is GeneScreen's data privacy policy?

GeneScreen’s Privacy Policy can be viewed here: https://www.gene-screen.com/privacy-policy

HOW CAN I BEST PREPARE FOR MY GENETIC COUNSELING APPOINTMENT?

Please gather your family history for any known genetic conditions, cancers, birth defects and/or chronic illnesses.  This includes aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. We also ask that you send us any previous genetic testing results for yourself or a family member so that we may review these before your appointment.  

You can email us at genescreen@gene-screen.com for more information on how to send us previous test results or other clinical records. 

WHAT TYPES OF APPOINTMENTS DOES GENESCREEN OFFER?

GeneScreen offers secure teleconferences with video capabilities via a dedicated US-based HIPAA-compliant Zoom session. These meetings can be accessed through an application on your cell phone or through a computer.

HOW LONG IS A TYPICAL APPOINTMENT?

Depending on the type and amount of information being reviewed we ask that you plan on your appointment taking up to 45 minutes.  

HOW DO I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?

You can call our direct line at 908-335-9555 or 888-435-1229 or use the personalized online scheduling link you may have received via text message and/or email.  Since we will be reviewing sensitive health related information it is preferred that you schedule your consult when you are available in a private place with no distractions (for example not in your car). 

Please have your insurance information available at the time of scheduling.