Frequently Asked Questions

Who benefits

Q. Who can benefit from genetic testing?
A. Anyone who has unanswered questions about disorders or traits that run in their family could benefit from genetic testing and counseling.

[ Back to top ]

What is Genetic Testing

Q. What does genetic testing cover?
A. Genetic testing is a type of laboratory test that looks for changes in a person’s genetic material (DNA, genes or chromosomes) or in the products that the genes make. Most times genetic testing is done by taking a blood sample, but sometimes other body samples (like cheek cells or skin) are needed. There are many genetic conditions for which there is no testing available. So, not everybody who comes to RGI for genetic counseling will be able to have a genetic test. The physician and genetic counselor that you speak with during your appointment will explain if genetic testing is available. For example, they will tell you who in the family is the best person to be tested first, and how long it will take to see the results. As a general rule, ALL genetic testing results are given in person during a follow-up genetic counseling session. Finally, because many genetic tests are expensive and not always covered by insurance, we recommend that each person check with his/her insurance company about coverage prior to having testing.

[ Back to top ]

Visits

Q. How many visits are needed?
A. The number of visits that you will need depends on the reason for your appointment. For pediatric consultations, it may take several visits to fully evaluate your child. For adults who are interested in genetic testing for inherited predisposition to certain cancers, at least two visits will be required. Adults coming in for pre-conceptional or prenatal counseling will usually only see you one time, but sometimes more than one visit is necessary. For other types of adult visits, it will depend on your specific situation.
Q. Who should I bring with me on the appointment?
A. If you have a spouse, family member or close friend that you would like to have with you for support, then you should bring them with you to the appointment. Also, if several members of your family are affected with, or are at risk for, the same condition, then it might be helpful for those individuals to accompany you to your appointment as well.

[ Back to top ]

Insurance Coverage

Q. Will my insurance compnay cover genetic testing?
A. Genetic counseling and genetic testing are often, but not always, covered by insurance companies. Insurance coverage depends on your specific policy and the reason for your genetic counseling visit. You can find out if genetics services are covered by calling the customer service phone number on your insurance card. The insurance company may ask for specific codes or test names in order to determine coverage. You can call our office and speak with a genetic counselor to get this information.

[ Back to top ]