Genetic counselling involves discussing benefits, limitations and the possible consequences of the genetic testing to be performed. It can be provided by your referring specialist or a qualified genetic counsellor and must be undertaken before testing.
As a complex, cancer risk test, where the results can have important medical and psychological implications for both the patient and their family, our national accreditation body requires genetic counselling to be performed prior to genetic testing. GPs are not trained or accredited to provide genetic counselling services.
Following counselling you are then required to consent to genetic testing. If you do not wish to proceed with the testing, you may stop the process here.
Post-test counselling enables full understanding of what the results mean for you, as well as any implications for family members.