Genes & Your Health Edition | Navigating the Genetic Testing World - The Role of a Genetic Counselor
Oct 25, 2023
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Jennifer L. Kemppainen, a genetic counselor, discusses the role of genetic counselors in helping patients understand genetic testing. They review medical and family history, discuss barriers and coverage for genetic testing, and emphasize the importance of genetic counseling in understanding test results. The significance of genetic counselors in patient care and advice for healthcare professionals on referring patients to them is also highlighted.
Genetic counselors play a critical role in helping patients understand family and medical histories and genetic indications and conditions.
Thorough family history is crucial in recognizing potential genetic risks, such as early onset cancers and clustering of related health problems.
Deep dives
What is a Genetic Counselor?
A genetic counselor is a healthcare professional who works with patients and families to explain the impact of genetic conditions and indications. They gather medical and family history, provide education about genetic conditions and testing, and help with decision-making and informed consent.
Navigating Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing has become popular, but it is important to understand its limitations. These tests often only provide screening and may not be clinically validated. If abnormalities are found, referral to a genetic counselor for further assessment is recommended. Negative test results should not provide false reassurance for those with a significant family history of genetic conditions.
Identifying Red Flags in Family History
A thorough family history is crucial in recognizing potential genetic risks. Red flags include early onset cancers, multiple family members with the same disease, clustering of related health problems, and rare or unusual diseases. Identifying these red flags can indicate the need for further evaluation and genetic counseling.
With increased availability and accessibility of genetic testing, genetic counselors are playing a critical role in helping patients understand family and medical histories and genetic indications and conditions that may impact them or their loved ones. How do genetic counselors help patients to feel comfortable and understand the often-confusing world of genetic testing? Learn more in this episode of Mayo Clinic's Center for Individualized Medicine Genes & Your Health podcast miniseries featuring Jennifer L. Kemppainen, M.S., CGC, Supervisor of Genetic Counselors and Assistant Professor in Medical Genetics at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.
Connect with the Mayo Clinic’s School of Continuous Professional Development online at https://ce.mayo.edu/ or on Twitter @MayoMedEd.
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