Proactive Genetic Screening
Determining if Genetic Testing is Right For You
St. Elizabeth Healthcare is committed to improving your health in any way we can. About 1 in 15 people carry a serious health-related genetic risk, most of whom have no recognized family or personal history of disease. Recognizing this risk can be the first and most important step towards prevention. We now offer Proactive Genetic Screening to individuals who are interested in accurate, actionable information about their risk for certain genetic conditions.
Genetic Test Finding and Results
The testing includes genetic risk screening for common conditions such as breast cancer, colon cancer, cardiomyopathies, blood clotting disorders and genetic forms of high cholesterol. This physician-ordered screening is quick and affordable.
This type of genetic screening does not detect the presence of disease, but can determine if you may be at increased risk for the disease based on your results. Not everyone with a genetic risk factor will develop the disease. If you’re found to be at higher risk, you may choose to take proactive measures to prevent the disease.
How Proactive Genetic Screening Works
Proactive genetic screening begins with a meeting with a licensed genetic counselor to review your personal and family health history. The meeting can take place in person, or by telehealth or video visit. After the discussion, genetic screening will be tailored to you and what you would like to learn about your genetic health. For example, if you are determined to be at “general population” risk, the Proactive Genetic Screen is a good test for you. However, if a significant history of disease is identified, you may be guided to a disease-specific diagnostic level genetic test to better address the risk in your family. The genetic counselor will ensure the right test is selected based on your personal needs.
If it is determined that genetic testing is right for you, a simple blood or saliva sample can be collected at the time of your consultation, or if you prefer, a saliva sample collection kit can be mailed to your home. In 2-3 weeks, the results are reviewed with you by phone and a personalized, preventive healthcare plan can be created, together, with your doctors. If your test results indicate that you need additional medical attention, recommendations will be shared with you and your health care providers. If desired, you will have an opportunity to make a follow-up appointment with your genetic counselor to further review your results and discuss any questions.
Contact A Genetic Counselor
Address:
1 Medical Village Drive
Edgewood, KY 41017
Phone:
859-301-GENE (4363)
Fax:
859-301-4924
Email:
askgenetics@stelizabeth.com
The Cost of Proactive Genetic Screening
The cost of proactive genetic screening ranges from $250-350, determined by the test that you chose after your genetic counseling discussion. Individuals with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) can often use these funds to pay for the cost of the screening.
