Hereditary Cancer Program Find a Location Find a Doctor Genetics Genetics Center for Precision Medicine and Genomic Health Hereditary Cancer Program BRCA Testing Pharmacogenomic Screening Preconception and Perinatal Genetic Services Carrier Status Screening Proactive Genetic Screening Hereditary Cancer Program If you have a family history of cancer and you’re concerned about your risk, our genetic counselors can provide answers. In fact, we’re known for our expertise — we’re the only cancer program in Northern Kentucky with a team of genetic counselors on-site. Our genetic counselors have more than 35 years of combined experience. When you know your risk, you can take steps to prevent cancer or identify disease early, when it’s treated most successfully. Genetic Testing for Cancer Although the majority of cancer is due to non-genetic factors — such as environment, lifestyle or age — about 5 to 10 percent of cancer is the result of a gene mutation that can be passed down from generation to generation. This is what’s called hereditary cancer. Genetic testing can tell you if you carry a cancer gene mutation and determine if you’re at higher risk of developing certain cancers — or a second cancer, if you’ve been diagnosed with cancer. How Genetic Testing Can Help Genetic testing results provide important information and can: Guide your cancer care team in planning your treatment (if you’ve already been diagnosed with cancer). Help your care team manage your increased cancer risks through screening and prevention education. Provide information for your family members. Personalized Genetic Counseling Genetic counseling can help you understand hereditary cancer and the benefits and limitations of genetic testing. Our specially trained genetic counselors help you make informed decisions about genetic testing, cancer treatment and screening plans. We offer support and resources to help you handle the emotional impact that genetic testing results may have on you and your family. Make an Appointment To make an appointment with our Genetic Cancer experts, call (859) 655-7400. Questions? Talk to a genetic counselor at (859) 301-5396. At-Home Genetic Testing At-home genetic tests for medical information are now inexpensive and easy to get, but counselors at St. Elizabeth Healthcare say if you choose to buy one there are a few things to take into consideration. LEARN MORE Cancer Genetic Counseling and Testing FAQ Who should have genetic counseling? If any of the following describe you or a family member, consider meeting with a genetic counselor: Breast cancer before the age of 50. Ovarian cancer at any age. Two or more primary diagnoses of cancer or bilateral cancer (both breasts, both kidneys, etc.). Male breast cancer. Colon cancer before the age of 50. Uterine cancer before the age of 60. Rare cancers, such as pancreatic cancer or sarcomas, (cancer that develops from certain tissues, such as bone or muscle). How do I prepare for my first genetic counseling appointment? If possible, talk with your relatives about your family’s history of cancer — specifically the type of cancer and the age of the family member when cancer was diagnosed. If you or a relative has had genetic testing, please bring a copy of the result to your appointment. It’s also helpful to write down questions for the genetic counselor. You’re welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment. What can I expect at my appointment? Your genetic counselor will ask you about your personal medical history and family history of cancer. Your counselor will: Educate you about hereditary cancer and inheritance. Explain possible test results and provide follow-up recommendations. Review your insurance coverage and legal protection related to genetic testing. You’ll have the option to have genetic testing the day of your appointment. If you decide to have genetic testing, you’ll have a blood sample drawn. How do I get my results? Once the results are available, your genetic counselor will call you and explain your results in detail. You’ll learn: How your results may impact your future cancer screenings and your family members. Whether increased cancer screening is recommended for you. You’ll receive a written report in the mail following your visit. In addition, we offer follow-up visits to talk with your counselor in person. Your consultation and results are treated with the same privacy and respect as your other personal health information. Does insurance cover genetic testing? Most insurance plans cover genetic testing if there are appropriate risk factors for testing. During your session, your genetic counselor can explain the billing process for testing. Most genetic labs will verify your insurance coverage and notify you about any out-of-pocket expense before beginning the test. In most cases, you don’t need to call your insurance provider before your counseling appointment. Do I need a referral? We recommend you always discuss your concerns about your personal or family history of cancer with your primary care provider. Although your doctor can refer you to genetic counseling, you don’t need a referral to schedule an appointment.