Medical College of Wisconsin Genetic Counseling Program

Genetic counseling is a process that helps individuals and families understand how genetics may affect their health.

During your appointment, your genetic counselor will:

• Review your personal and family medical history
• Assess your risk for inherited conditions
• Explain how genetics may contribute to disease
• Discuss whether genetic testing may be appropriate
• Review the benefits, limitations, and possible results of testing
• Help you understand your results and what they mean for you and your family
• Coordinate referrals and recommendations for ongoing medical care when appropriate

Our goal is to provide clear, personalized information so you can make informed decisions that align with your healthcare goals and values.

You may benefit from genetic counseling if you have:

• A personal or family history of cancer
• A personal or family history of heart disease, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac death
• A neurologic condition that may have a genetic cause
• A connective tissue disorder such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
• A known genetic condition in yourself or a family member
• Multiple family members with the same or related medical conditions
• A family member with a known genetic variant
• Questions about inherited medical conditions or genetic testing
• Genetic concerns regarding your pregnancy or inherited risks questions related to family planning

Your healthcare provider may also recommend genetic counseling based on your medical history or test results.

Before your appointment, we may ask you to complete a family history questionnaire and gather information about your relatives' medical history. Medical records or prior genetic test results may also be helpful.

During your visit, your genetic counselor will discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and work with you to develop a personalized care plan. If genetic testing is recommended, we will explain:

• Which test(s) may be appropriate
• Possible results and what they could mean
• Insurance coverage and billing considerations
• How results may impact your medical care and family members

Not every patient needs genetic testing. In some cases, genetic counseling alone provides the information needed to guide healthcare decisions.

If genetic testing is performed, your genetic counselor will review the results with you and discuss:

• What your results mean
• Recommended screening or medical management
• Whether testing may be appropriate for family members
• Referrals to specialists or additional resources, if needed

We partner closely with your healthcare team to ensure your genetic information is incorporated into your ongoing care.