What You Need to Know About Genetic Testing
Is It Right for Me?
Genetic counseling and testing can tell you how and why an illness like cancer can be passed down in a family. It also can help your doctors figure out how to treat or prevent cancer better. Only you can decide if genetic testing is right for you. Here are some things you should know about genetic testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Genetic counseling can tell you how and why an illness like cancer can be passed down in a family.
Genetic testing can help your doctors figure out how to treat or prevent cancer better.
Your health insurance or Grady’s financial assistance program may cover the entire cost. We will tell you if the test costs more than $100.
There is a lot of information to discuss before you decide if you want genetic testing. Expect the meeting to last about an hour. We’ll collect blood or saliva at this visit if you choose to test.
You and your genetic counselor will discuss:
- Personal or family history of cancer
- Genetic causes (DNA) of cancer
- Testing options
- Pros and cons of genetic testing
- Possible results
- Cost of testing
- What this means for you and your family
- How we protect your privacy
Genetic testing usually takes 3 weeks. We’ll set a date and time for you to come back and review your result with the genetic counselor. We will call if your results take longer than 3 weeks.
Yes. Your test results will be available in your medical record. So, your doctor has access to them.
Yes, after you review your results with the genetic counselor. We will give you a copy, send it to you in MyChart, or mail it to you.
You are welcome to bring one visitor with you to the appointment. Due to COVID, we ask everyone to wear a mask.
Make An Appointment
If you still have questions or just want to discuss genetic testing, please talk to your doctor about your concerns. You can also request a meeting with a genetic counselor at Grady’s Cancer Center by calling (404) 489-9000.
