What to expect in your consultation

A genetic consultation provides information, addresses a patient’s specific questions and concerns, and offers support.

During a consultation, a genetics professional will:

• Assess the risk of a genetic disorder by researching your family's history and evaluating medical records.
• Help you weigh the medical, social and ethical decisions surrounding genetic testing to help you make informed, independent decisions about your health care.
• Interpret the results of genetic tests and medical data.
• Offer supportive counseling and assist you in coping with difficult situations and feelings.
• Respect your individual beliefs, traditions and feelings.
• Serve as patient advocates.
• Discuss reproductive options.
• Explore strategies for communicating information to others, especially family members who may be at risk.
• Provide written materials and referrals to support groups, other families with the same or similar condition, and local and national service agencies.

A genetics professional will not:

• Tell you which decision to make.
• Advise you not to have children.
• Recommend that a woman continue or end a pregnancy.
• Tell you whether to undergo testing for a genetic disorder.

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