Genetic Counseling

Patients and patient families can be referred to the Clinical Genetics service by their personal physician or specialist
those who are registered in the Genetic Health System (GESY). Many people are referred because there is a suspicion of a possible hereditary disease in them or in the extended family. However, genetic counseling may be requested for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons are:

Discuss available options for pregnancy

• Couple with infertility problems, multiple miscarriages or history of stillbirths.
• Previous pregnancy or child with a genetic condition.

During pregnancy

• A pregnant woman with an ultrasound or other diagnostic finding indicative of a possible genetic problem.
• Pregnant with exposure to radiation, chemicals, infections or drugs.

Children
If your child has symptoms or signs of a condition that may be genetic, including:

• Abnormalities in physical constitution
• Developmental or mental retardation
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Loss of hearing or vision

Adults
If you have symptoms of a condition or a family history of a condition that makes you more likely to be affected by this condition, such as:

• Cancer
• Neurological Disorders
• Hematologic Disorders
• Cardiovascular Disorders etc.

What happens during the Clinical Counseling session

• There is a full assessment of the reason for the referral and a discussion around possible questions you may have.
• Record family history – chronic conditions and diseases.
• Clinical examination by a medical-clinical geneticist if deemed necessary.
• The law of heredity and basic concepts of genetics are explained.
• Assistance in selecting genetic testing/interpreting potential results that may occur to both the patient and the medical team.
• Discussing available options with the patient/family in a way that encourages individuals to make autonomous decisions
• Providing counseling to patients and their families