Genetic counseling may be appropriate for you if:

You have a diagnosis of cancer:

• Genetics results might guide surgical and targeted treatment plans
• To inform your risk for a new cancer for screening/prevention
• You’re concerned about the cancer risk for your children, siblings or other relatives

If you have a family history of cancer:

• Genetics results can help to inform screening and risk-reducing options like medications and surgery

When you come to us for genetic counseling, we will:

• Create a family medical history to understand the patterns of cancer in the family
• Address your concerns related to cancer and genetics
• Discuss the possibility and process for genetic testing
• Explain the biology and genetics of inherited cancer
• Send a summary letter to you and your doctor(s) outlining our discussion. We will also review options available to you for managing your cancer risk, such as screening.

No referral is required for our services. However, some insurers do require a referral from a doctor before they will cover genetic counseling. We suggest contacting your insurance provider to verify coverage before scheduling your appointment.

If other family members have underdone genetic testing in the past, it may be helpful to ask them to provide a copy of their results. If they need to request these from their provider, this form may be helpful.

Susan’s older sister was recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Through genetic counseling, Susan learned she was at risk of having inherited a genetic change in BRCA2, a gene linked to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

Susan was stunned and confused about her cancer risk, so she met with a genetic counselor. She learned that while her chances of inheriting the gene were high, there are many screening and surgical options available to women who are at increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

A genetic counselor helped Susan take preventive steps. This enabled her to feel confident about her ability to reduce her risk and detect cancer early.

Deborah was 32 years old when she lost a close childhood friend to breast cancer. Constantly worried about her own risk for developing the disease, she visited her doctor three times in one year to have clinical breast exams.

On Deborah’s third visit, her doctor recommended she meet with a genetic counselor to discuss her risk. Through genetic counseling, Deborah was relieved to learn that her personal risk of breast cancer is less than that of an average woman.

Deborah learned the importance of knowing one’s family history. She will begin mammogram screening at the age of 40, as is generally recommended.