What is Genetic Counseling and Testing?
The Centegra Genetic Counseling Program offers consultations to those who may be at increased risk of developing cancer due to their personal or family history of cancer. It can provide individuals and their families with a better understanding of their cancer risks and assist them in making informed medical decisions.
Who Should Consider Genetic Counseling?
Individuals with a personal or family history of cancer are eligible to participate in a cancer genetics risk assessment. Indicators of an increased cancer risk may include one or more of the following:
- Cancer diagnosed at an early age (e.g. breast, colon or uterine cancer diagnosed at age 50 or younger)
- ovarian cancer diagnosed at any age
- Multiple family members on the same side of the family who have been diagnosed with cancer
- An individual or family member diagnosed with two or more primary cancers or a rare cancer (e.g. male breast cancer)
- A family member who has been diagnosed with a hereditary type of cancer
- Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry in addition to a risk factor listed above
What Should You Expect During a Genetics Consultation?
An individualized cancer risk assessment is generated by the genetic counselor based on your detailed family history and personal medical history. This assessment will help to determine the lifetime cancer risks for you and your family members.Testing is a personal choice. Our counselor will help guide you through the decision making process and address the psychological and social concerns you and your family members may have after learning of an increased cancer risk.
Based on family history and/or genetic testing results, our genetic counselor will discuss cancer surveillance and preventive measures. This may include intensive monitoring, use of medications and or surgery. Referrals to other medical specialists will be made as needed.
Will Your Insurance Cover Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing is frequently covered by insurance companies.
The genetic counselor will explain the processes in place to help determine the level of insurance coverage if genetic testing is pursued.
What About Genetic Discrimination?
Federal and state laws prohibit health insurance companies from discriminating against you or your family members for receiving genetic services and testing. The genetic counselor can address any concerns you may have during your appointment.
To schedule an appointment or for more information, contact:
Shelly Galasinski, MS, CGC
Licensed Genetic Counselor
Phone: 815-759-4502
Fax: 815-344-9601
SGalasinski@centegra.com (SGalasinski@centegra.com)
Centegra Sage Cancer Center
4305 Medical Center Drive
McHenry, IL 60050
