Genetic counseling involves risk assessment and education provided by healthcare professionals with specialized training in genetics and genetic conditions. Traditionally, genetic counseling was offered to patients in a prenatal setting. However, with advances in science and technology, people with all types of conditions or family histories of conditions may benefit from genetic counseling. Genetic counseling may help you:

• Get accurate, up-to-date information about genetic disorders, birth defects and available testing.
• Determine your risk to develop certain conditions that run in your family (cancer, Alzheimer's, etc.).
• Better understand your chances of giving birth to a child with a birth defect or genetic condition and help plan for the care of a child born with a birth defect or other problem.
• Identify appropriate resources relevant to your concerns.

Who should be referred for genetic counseling?

If you or your family members are concerned about the risks of either passing along or developing inherited diseases, you may want to consider genetic counseling.

Click here to learn more about some of the reasons a referral for genetic counseling may be made.

What happens during a genetic counseling appointment?

You will meet with a genetic counselor, who will gather additional family history information and possibly medical records of affected family members. The counselor will perform a risk assessment based on this information and will discuss its implications for you and your family. Genetic testing may be offered. The counselor will make screening and management recommendations, when appropriate. Resources and support for you and your family will be provided. Further visits may be arranged based on family needs.

How can an evaluation be arranged?

To set up an appointment, call the Genetic Counseling Center at (859) 260-4419. Prior to your appointment, a genetic counselor may contact you by phone to gather preliminary information.

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