A genetic counseling consultation provides information, guidance, and support to individuals who have or are at risk of developing a genetic condition.
During the genetic counseling session, the geneticist meets with an individual and/or family to discuss the genetic risks that may affect them and to provide, where appropriate, information on genetic testing and available options for better management of their situation, such as considering various potential treatments.
To determine if a disease or condition has a genetic component, the professional geneticist needs to know, if possible, the detailed family history and the medical records of the person to understand their unique family lineage.
The information extracted from a genetic counseling session helps determine if more in-depth genetic analysis is necessary or which tests might be most suitable. However, the decision to proceed rests with the affected person, who will be provided with the necessary information regarding potential consequences for themselves or their offspring based on the genetic results. Should the decision be made to undergo further in-depth genetic testing, a physician must provide the prescription for these tests.
It is the responsibility of the person seeking genetic counseling to communicate the information obtained to their direct relatives (parents, children, or siblings), especially if it contains vital information that could impact their health should they also carry those genetic variants or mutations.
How to access Genetic Counseling consultations at tellmeGen?
At tellmeGen, we ensure that our clients feel supported throughout the entire process by a medical professional and/or a qualified geneticist.
Ultimately, tellmeGen aims to provide its users with a proper understanding of their genetic test results so that they become an essential tool for health care and quality of life.
Furthermore, at tellmeGen, we have developed a Personalized Genetic Counseling Service that includes consultations where our expert geneticists analyze each case and evaluate the most convenient options for each client.
Personalized Genetic Consultations have a small additional cost. A single genetic consultation—regarding a single aspect of your results—has an extra fee. If you have multiple questions and the report requires more extensive analysis by tellmeGen professionals, there is the option to purchase a consultation pack. The procedure followed in these genetic counseling sessions is as follows:
- The tellmeGen professional contacts the client (via email) who requested the consultation to understand the issue to be addressed.
- Once the client has presented their concerns, the professional geneticist will study the case and write a personalized report addressing the detected genetic variants and the personal history described by the client.
Through this service, we will clarify any doubts the client has regarding their results and guide them through various preventive measures. Where possible, advice on potential treatments will be provided.