Medical Genetics
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The Appointment Process
Patients desiring a genetic consultation can make an appointment directly by calling the clinic. A doctor may also refer a patient to a medical geneticist.
A Genetic Clinic Visit
A genetic clinic appointment typically takes 1 to 1 ½ hours. Patients will be asked to complete a questionnaire before their visit regarding their personal health history and family history. If the patient is a child, the questions will be regarding the child’s health history and the family health history of the parents. This information will be clarified at the clinic visit and additional questions may be asked.
Depending upon the situation, a patient may require a physical exam. The exam is very detailed in an effort to make sure that no potentially important features, no matter how subtle, are overlooked. The exam does not include a pelvic exam or rectal exam.
After the exam, the geneticist will discuss the diagnostic possibilities and the rationale behind any tests that are requested. In addition, there is sometimes a need for additional information on the patient or other family members. This requires signing informed consent documents. Other family members would have to sign for themselves. If such a request is made of other family members, the information is considered private and only the information relevant to the patient’s possible diagnosis is discussed.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage varies for medical genetics. It is best to contact the patient’s insurance company regarding coverage. Some patients are concerned about the possibility that they may be discriminated against in terms of health insurance or life insurance on the basis of DNA test results. Laws have been passed that ban discrimination on the basis of DNA testing. Details regarding these laws may be further discussed at the clinic visit.