Frequently Asked Questions

You may wish to see a genetic counselor if you have a personal or family history of cancer. We welcome all individuals and families who have a concern about a cancer diagnosis or a family history of cancer.

We provide risk assessment, genetic counseling and genetic testing to individuals affected with cancer and their at-risk relatives. We help patients navigate surveillance, prevention and treatment options, as well as other cancer prevention strategies.

Our cancer genetics team partners with you to integrate your genetic testing results into your overall health care plan. That plan can include:

Cancer screenings: A high-risk surveillance strategy to reduce future risk by finding cancer in its very early stages.

Medications: Some medications can help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.

Risk-reducing surgery: A procedure to remove high-risk tissues that could develop into cancer, such as breast or ovarian tissues.

The only difference is that a same-day blood draw would be available for an in-person appointment if you decide to proceed with testing. If you are seen for a video visit, you can be sent an at-home cheek swab or saliva genetic testing kit or come in for a blood draw. Blood, saliva, and cheek swab samples have the same accuracy for genetic testing. Your genetic counselor will discuss sample collection options in detail during the consult.

Please see Hereditary Cancer Syndromes webpage. 

Try to ask the most informed family members and communicate limitations to your doctor. You can still be seen if you do not have information about your family’s health history.

We recommend calling your insurance directly and providing them with the service code to confirm coverage and any out-of-pocket costs according to your specific plan. The cost of genetic testing will be discussed during the appointment. Please call the Cancer Genetics Department for specific questions at 310-267-0917.