Adult Genetics Services

The Benefits of a Visit to Adult Genetics

What can I expect from a genetics evaluation?

At your appointment you will meet with a genetic counsellor and a geneticist.

Before or during your appointment the genetic counsellor will ask you about:

• your current and past health,
• your family’s health. The genetic counsellor will create a family tree from this information.
• your medical records. The genetic counsellor may ask that you have your doctors send copies of these records to our clinic.

During your appointment the geneticist and genetic counsellor will:

• review your health history and your family tree,
• help you understand how your family tree can affect your health and the health of your children,
• assess whether or not you or your family members have a genetic condition (this could include a physical exam by the geneticist),
• give you information about genetic conditions that may be in your family. This information can include:
  • how genetic conditions are diagnosed,
  • how these conditions affect people,
  • what treatment might be available.
• explain the way a condition is passed on in families,
• arrange blood tests or other procedures that may help to diagnose your condition,
• explain the pros and cons of any genetic testing that is available,
• help you make decisions about genetic testing,
• help you deal with the emotional impact of your risk or genetic condition,
• help you find support in your community.

After your appointment, the geneticist and/or genetic counsellor will:

• send your doctor and/or you a letter that will tell you about:
  • the information that you received during your appointment,
  • any test results, and
  • any diagnosis that the genetics team has found.
• refer you to other doctors or specialists who can help you with your genetic condition.