A appointment helps you understand whether may be useful and what the possible results could mean. Counseling should help you make an informed choice, not pressure you into testing.
What to Expect
The genetic counselor will review your personal cancer history and your family's history across several generations. They may explain which genes are relevant, what a blood or saliva test can and cannot answer, and how results could affect treatment, screening, or relatives.
Results may be positive, negative, or uncertain. A variant of uncertain significance is not the same as a confirmed inherited risk.
Prepare Before You Go
- Write down cancer types and ages at for close relatives when known.
- Bring any previous genetic or tumor-testing reports.
- Check insurance coverage and expected costs.
- Think about how much information you want and whether you want support at the results visit.
Questions to Ask
- Which test is recommended, and why?
- Could the result affect my current treatment?
- What protections and privacy limits apply to genetic information?
- Who can help me talk with relatives if a result matters to them?
- How will uncertain results be reviewed over time?
What Happens Next
If you choose testing, results may take several weeks. Schedule a conversation to interpret them rather than relying only on a portal report.