Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a gene and why are genes important for my healthcare?
- What will my genetic counseling appointment cost me?
- Is there a difference between genetic counseling and genetic testing? Is the cost of genetic testing included in my appointment?
- Is the genetic testing done at the same time as my appointment?
- Will my genetic counselor force me to have a test?
- Why should I have genetic counseling—can’t I just have the test?
- How long will my appointment be?
- Who can I bring to my appointment?
- How many appointments will I have?
- Do you keep my medical information private? What about my genetic test results?
- How is a genetic counselor different from a medical geneticist (doctor)?
- Do you do paternity testing?
- What is a gene and why are genes important for my healthcare? (back)
Our bodies are made up of cells that contain genetic information. All of us normally have 46 chromosomes in each of the body’s cells. Chromosomes are “packages” of genes, which determine our physical characteristics and are responsible for normal growth and development. The chromosomes are divided into 23 pairs and are numbered from 1 to 22, with the last pair designated as the sex chromosomes (females have two X chromosomes, males have an X and a Y chromosome). Genes are made up of DNA, which itself is made up of a series of chemicals, coded by the letters A, T, G, and C. Because our chromosomes come in pairs, our genes come in pairs as well. Sometimes a simple “spelling error” (mutation) in the message can change the behavior/function of the gene. We are able to “read” some of the genes but not all. We are fortunate to know about some genes that when altered, cause an increased risk for certain types of medical conditions.
At your genetic counseling session, your counselor will review this information in greater detail and in a way that is meaningful to you. You do not have to be a science expert to get something out of your genetic counseling session.
- What will my genetic counseling appointment cost me? (back)
Ferre Genetics is able to bill most insurance companies for our services. For individuals and families without medical insurance, or for those whose insurance we cannot bill, we have a sliding scale fee based on income and number of people in the household. Many families qualify to be seen without charge. No person seeking genetic services will be turned away for inability to pay.
- Is there a difference between genetic counseling and genetic testing? Is the cost of genetic testing included in my appointment? (back)
Genetic counseling and genetic testing are indeed different. At your genetic counseling appointment, you will meet with a genetic counselor to review your personal medical history, to draw your family tree, and to review your family medical history. The genetic counselor will then, based on this information, assess whether there is a genetic explanation for your personal and/or family history. If so, she will discuss whether there are known gene(s) that may possibly explain your history, and if testing for such genes exist. Therefore, not all patients need and/or are eligible for genetic testing.
If your genetic counselor determines that genetic testing would be appropriate for you, and you choose to have it, your blood will be drawn and sent to a specific laboratory that performs the genetic test. For some tests there is only one lab in the country. Ferre Genetics does not have a laboratory and therefore does not perform genetic testing. Therefore, there is a separate charge for genetic testing as determined by the laboratory performing your test. Many laboratories can also bill patient insurance. Some laboratories, if performing research, will do your test for free. Your genetic counselor will review all of this information with you in great detail.
- Is the genetic testing done at the same time as my appointment? (back)
Although we do not have the ability to draw blood at our practice, certain aspects of genetic testing will be completed at your appointment. Genetic tests are performed by specialized laboratories throughout the country. Your genetic counselor will coordinate this test for you, including insurance authorization , if available. Therefore at your appointment you will complete the paperwork necessary for the test, including informed consent and billing paperwork. Sometimes it is necessary to schedule a second appointment for these tasks. Your genetic counselor will also work with a physician of your choice to have the test ordered. Once all steps are completed and payment is in place, you will be able to have your blood drawn at a local laboratory or at your physician’s office if possible.
- Will my genetic counselor force me to have a test? (back)
Absolutely not. Instead your genetic counselor will discuss with you the pros and cons of having a particular genetic test and help YOU make the best decision for yourself. Ultimately the decision of whether or not to pursue a genetic test is your own, and it is your genetic counselor’s job to assist you with that decision.
- Why should I have genetic counseling—can’t I just have the test? (back)
Genetic counseling is important for several reasons. First, a detailed analysis of your personal and family history is necessary so that the correct gene is chosen for testing. For example, there are numerous genes that can cause an increased risk for breast cancer. A genetic counselor will look for clues to determine which genes may be most appropriate for you and your family. Genetic testing can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, so therefore it is important to create the optimal personal testing plan for you and your family.
Second, the implications of genetic testing can be unique. Sometimes the test results have implications for an entire family. Some test results indicate susceptibility to disease but may not necessarily predict if and when you will develop it. Genetic counselors are trained to help you understand all of these issues so that you are fully informed when you choose to proceed with genetic testing. Informed consent for genetic testing is also required by NYS law.
- How long will my appointment be? (back)
Your initial consultation typically takes 1 to 2 hours. Follow-up appointments may be shorter.
- Who can I bring to my appointment? (back)
You may bring whomever you like to your appointment. We ask that you notify us ahead of time if you are going to bring a large number of people with you so that we can be sure that we have enough seating. Appointments can run long so be aware of this if you choose to bring small children. As genetic counseling is a discussion of your family health history and genetic testing has broader implications than to just the person being tested, interested family members are welcomed and encouraged to attend. Also, because of the sensitive nature of some genetic tests, we encourage such individuals to have a support person present upon receiving their test results.
- How many appointments will I have? (back)
It depends on what you and your genetic counselor decide for your medical plan. If genetic testing is an option for you, there may be two to three appointments: the initial consultation, a brief session to complete testing paperwork if not performed during your first visit, and a third session to review your test results. Some clients choose not to move forward with genetic testing or they may not be eligible, so only one appointment may be necessary.
- Do you keep my medical information private? What about my genetic test results? (back)
Privacy is extremely important to us. With the exception of your referring physician/medical provider (if you have one), your information will not be shared with anyone without your written permission. Your referring provider will receive a copy of your consultation letter. If you referred yourself only you will receive the letter unless you request a copy be sent to one of your health care professionals. Because genetic counselors cannot order tests, if you do pursue genetic testing then a copy of your test results will be provided to the physician who ordered your test.
- How is a genetic counselor different from a medical geneticist (doctor)? (back)
A genetic counselor has a master’s degree in genetic counseling from one of several programs throughout the country or abroad. Their expertise is in assessing personal and family medical histories and determining whether a genetic susceptibility/known genetic syndrome exists to explain such a history. A medical geneticist is a specially trained doctor who can diagnose and/or treat individuals with certain genetic syndromes. Medical geneticists, after completing medical school, usually perform a residency in pediatrics and then go on to do a fellowship in medical genetics. Often genetic counselors and medical geneticists work hand in hand with clients. Some conditions do not require the expertise of a physician and thus it is sufficient to see a genetic counselor only.
- Do you do paternity testing? (back)
Ferre Genetics does not coordinate paternity testing. We are glad to provide you with the name of a laboratory performing these services.
Text for this site provided by Erin Houghton, MS, CGC Genetic Counselor, Ferre Institute, Inc