Genetic counselling

For more info:
082 386 5289
genetics@nextbio.co.za

For more info: 082 386 5289
genetics@nextbio.co.za

Genetic Counsellors help patients make sense of the effect that a genetic condition has on them, and help with their genetic test decision-making process.

They also enable patients to understand the impact of genetic test results on their family.

Genetic Counselling for Genetic Testing

Genesis Genetics offers specialised genetic counselling to ensure that patients understand the test options available to them, including any associated benefits and limitations.

This equips patients to choose a test option best suited to their needs. A Genetic Counsellor will communicate a patient’s genetic test result and explain the effect of this on them and their family, providing detail on available choices and offering further help.

Genetic Counsellors are healthcare professionals that specialise in medical genetics and counselling. They are registered with the HPCSA , and their professional healthcare services are accepted by medical aid funders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who would benefit from genetic counselling?

Patients who:

  • Have a child or a family history of a genetic condition, chromosome abnormality, birth defect or developmental delay
  • Are from an ethnic group at higher risk for a genetic condition e.g. Ashkenazi Jews
  • Are worried about the risk of having a child with a birth defect or genetic condition
  • Are pregnant and over the age of 35 years
  • Have a personal or family history of miscarriages or stillbirths
  • Have a strong family history of cancer
  • Have a pregnancy that is classified as high risk, from previous assessments performed
  • Need information on prenatal screening and testing
What happens during a genetic counselling session?

During a genetic counselling consult, the Genetic Counsellor will do the following:

  • Draw up a family tree from a patient’s personal and family history
  • Discuss the cause, inheritance and risks of the genetic condition for a patient, their family and future pregnancies
  • Discuss treatment, management and preventive options, if appropriate
  • Offer genetic testing, where available
  • Explain the testing process including timing, benefits and limitations, and manage patients’ expectations
  • Address patient concerns, queries and any ethical issues
  • Facilitate the testing process in conjunction with a patient’s referring physician
  • Communicate results to the patient, and provide appropriate support and care

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