Frequently Asked Questions

What is Genetic Counseling?
Who are Genetic Counselors?
What does a Genetic Counselor Do?
Why Might Someone Seek Genetic Counseling?
What Can I Expect During a Genetic Counseling Session?
Is Genetic Counseling Confidential?
How Do I Prepare for a Genetic Counseling Appointment?
Is Genetic Counseling Covered by Insurance?
How Can Genetic Counseling Help Me?
Who Can Receive Genetic Counseling Through MKGenetix?

What is Genetic Counseling?

Genetic counseling is a process that involves a trained healthcare professional, known as a genetic counselor, who provides information, support, and guidance to individuals and families about genetic conditions. The goal is to help someone understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease.

Who are Genetic Counselors?

Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals with specialized training in medical genetics and counseling. They have a master’s degrees in genetic counseling and are skilled in interpreting genetic test results, assessing risk, and providing education and support to patients and their families.

What Does a Genetic Counselor Do?

A genetic counselor:

• Reviews family and medical histories to assess the likelihood of genetic conditions.
• Explains the inheritance patterns, potential chances, and implications of genetic conditions.
• Discusses the options available for genetic testing and the potential outcomes.
• Provides emotional support and counseling to help individuals and families cope with their concerns.
• Helps patients understand their test results and make informed decisions about their health care and management.
• Educates patients about preventive measures, treatment options, and available resources.

Why Might Someone Seek Genetic Counseling?

Individuals or families might seek genetic counseling for various reasons, including:

• A personal or family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, or chromosome abnormality
  – Examples – cancer, Down syndrome, cleft lip/palate, heart defects, hypermobility, autism, etc.
• Concerns about the risk of passing on a genetic condition to their children.
• Abnormal results from preconception or prenatal screening tests.
  – Examples – carrier screening or non-invasive prenatal testing/screening (NIPT or NIPS), abnormal preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) etc.
• Infertility or multiple miscarriages.
• A diagnosis of a genetic condition in themselves or a family member.
  – Examples – Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, neurofibromatosis, familial hypercholesterolemia, etc.
• Concerns about genetic risks related to their ethnic background.
  – Examples – Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, French Canadian ancestry etc.

What Can I Expect During a Genetic Counseling Session?

During a genetic counseling session, you can expect:

• A detailed discussion of your personal and family medical history.
• An assessment of your chance for genetic conditions.
• Information about genetic testing options, including the benefits, limitations, and potential outcomes.
• Support in making decisions that are right for you and your family.
• Counseling to help you understand and adapt to the results of genetic testing.

Is Genetic Counseling Confidential?

Yes, genetic counseling is confidential. Genetic counselors are committed to maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality in accordance with ethical guidelines and legal requirements. They will discuss with you how your information will be used and shared.

How Do I Prepare for a Genetic Counseling Appointment?

To prepare for a genetic counseling appointment, you should:

• Gather information about your family’s medical history, including any known genetic conditions including any relevant medical records or test results
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns you would like to discuss with the genetic counselor.

Is Genetic Counseling Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance plans cover genetic counseling, especially if it is recommended by a healthcare provider. However, we do not currently accept insurance at this time. You will receive a detailed summary that you could potentially submit to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement. However, we would be considered “out of network” and reimbursement cannot be guaranteed.

We offer self-pay services at a flat rate. You will NOT be charged until after the appointment:

• $144.00 (plus a processing fees): This applies to all traditional indications (connective tissue disorders, prenatal, cancer, pediatrics…) and includes the initial consultation as well as one results session, if needed. Any genetic testing that is ordered will be processed through your insurance.
  OR
• $179.00 (plus processing fees): Applies ONLY if you want us to review your direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing results (e.g., 23andMe raw data). Because these results require additional time to review, we ask that you send your data two weeks in advance. Any genetic testing that is ordered will be processed through your insurance.

We do not accept insurance at this time. However, we can provide a superbill after your appointment that you may submit to your insurance company for potential out-of-network reimbursement. If you qualify for Medicaid, you may be eligible for a small discount.

How Can Genetic Counseling Help Me?

Genetic counseling can help you by:

• Providing a clearer understanding of your genetic risks and health.
• Offering guidance on genetic testing and what the results may mean for you and your family.
• Supporting you in making informed health care and lifestyle decisions.
• Connecting you with resources and support networks for individuals with genetic conditions.

For more information you can email us at info@mkgenetix.com or schedule an appointment below. We are here to support you and your family on your genetic health journey.

Who Can Receive Genetic Counseling through MKGenetix?

Due to licensing limitations in the United States, we can only provide services to patients in the following states. Please know that this lists expands so come back if your state included. You can also reach out and we can help you find a genetic counselor in your state! If you are in Canada, great news! We can see you through telehealth services.

If you are in a different state, you could visit GC Clinic Finder, to look for other options.

For more information you can email us at info@mkgenetix.com or schedule an appointment below. We are here to support you and your family on your genetic health journey.