Cancer Genetics Consultation (The James)

Cancer Genetics Consultation (The James)

 

During a cancer genetics consultation you will meet with a counselor and/or a doctor who specialize in cancer genetics. They will work with you to complete a family medical history and help you understand how genes may cause cancer. You will be given information about your risk of developing cancer at some time in your life. You will also be given information about the risk of cancer being passed along through the genes in your family. They will talk with you about how you can lower your risk of getting cancer and how to find it early when it is more easily treated. This appointment will last 30 to 60 minutes.

 

Who should have a cancer genetics consultation?

  • A person with a strong family history of cancer. This means having 2 or more close relatives on the same side of the family, with the same type of cancer or related cancers. This is especially true if the cancer happened at a young age.
  • A person who had cancer at an early age, or had more than one kind of cancer.
  • A person from a family that is known to have an inherited cancer syndrome.
  • A person with a rare cancer (for example ovarian, pancreatic, male breast, sarcoma, or adrenal gland cancers).
  • A person who is very concerned about their risk based on their family history.
  • A person who wants to know more about the role of genes in cancer.

 

Should I have genetic testing?

Genetic testing is possible for some families. This testing will be discussed during your cancer genetics consultation. We will help you and your family to decide if testing is right for you. Testing involves having a blood sample drawn or providing a saliva sample and should begin with a family member who has had cancer when possible.

 

Will my insurance cover cancer genetics consultation?

We participate with most health insurance companies. Our services are often covered like any other specialist. However, every insurance plan is different. You should check the terms of your insurance plan before your appointment. Some insurance plans will only cover the services if your doctor refers you. The cost of genetic testing will be discussed with you during your appointment. Genetic testing is often well-covered by insurance and there are low cost options in cases where insurance does not cover the testing.

 

Who will be able to see this information?

The privacy of your health and family information is very important to us. We only give this information to family members or other health care providers with your approval.

 

How do I schedule an appointment or get more information?

You can call our office at (614) 685-0934 or toll free at 1-888-329-1654.

 

 

© December 5, 2023. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care.