Genetic testing Journey
Conversations around genetic testing used to be those of despair and loss of hope. Today the advances and the ability to predict risk allows us to forecast more precisely the future of ones health and disease , enabling experts to empower patients with information they need to make informed decisions regarding testing, screening and preventitive measures followoing on from the test.
Genetic counsellors are trained to help those who want to know more or are understandably worried before testing, and are aware that results of the gene tests may cause anger ,generate guilt or depression that some might experience . Hence the buffering effect of pretest counselling is very helpful to prepare for the test . This preparedness prior to testing eases the anxiety associated with the process , as many questions eg, relating to employment , heath insurance , life insurance, implications on the children family and similar other issues are discussed.
To meet your expectations of the decision to have a genetic test- it is important that any questions you may have are answered and you have sufficient information to make this decision . You will be advised of the impact of your decision to have the test . You must expect to have this clearly understood communicated and documented.