Patients and families

What to expect from a genetics appointment

All our appointments are conducted by an experienced genetic counsellor, in conjunction with a clinical geneticist (specialist physician).
Genetics appointments are a bit different to those you may have experienced with other medical specialists. The role of a clinical geneticist is to investigate for a possible genetic diagnosis to explain a person’s health or developmental problems. Genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists work closely together in order to provide a comprehensive assessment of each individual patient and family. We also work closely with your regular doctors and provide them with written information about your assessment, with your permission.
We ask detailed information about personal medical history as well as information about family members (such as the siblings or the parents of a patient). We also explain to patients and families quite detailed information about different types of genetic tests.
Prior to your first appointment we may ask you to provide some family history information, including test results and any previous genetic testing for you or your relatives. We must obtain permission for you to share any relative’s results with us.

We may recommend a genetic test for you. The ordering of genetic tests is more complex than arranging standard blood tests and any genetic test requires the patient to provide informed consent. We will explain the process to you in detail and organise testing if you wish to proceed.
Genetic results can be complex. Our role is to make sense of the complex results and explain these to you so that you can receive the best medical care.
We may not recommend a genetic test for you. This would usually be in a situation where we think that the chance of identifying a specific genetic condition, based on your personal and family history, is low.
Our role also encompasses patient and family education about specific genetic diagnoses, with provision of detailed management advice to the family and usual doctors (specialist or GP).

First appointments typically take 45 minutes and second or subsequent appointments 30-45 minutes.
Assessment of multiple family members may be required in which case a specialist or GP referral will be required for each relative. Our administration team will let you know if this is the case on review of the doctor’s referral. Where multiple relatives wish to attend a single appointment, this will be allocated a longer time slot.

Appointments: Most patients will be eligible for a Medicare rebate for a portion of the consultation cost, provided they have an appropriate referral letter from their usual doctor (GP or specialist). Information about detailed pricing and expected out of pocket costs can be obtained from the Reception team, once we receive a referral from your doctor.
Genetic Tests: Some genetic tests are funded via Medicare if certain eligibility criteria are met, and so there is no out of pocket cost to the patient. In other cases, additional out-of-pocket costs may be associated with genetic tests. Your genetic counsellor and clinical geneticist will discuss with you whether or not you meet the criteria for a Medicare funded test and what the expected out of pocket cost may be given your individual circumstances. You can then choose whether or not you wish to go ahead with the recommended testing.

Please note that all Telehealth appointments require payment in full prior to the day of the appointment. You can pay by direct transfer or by credit card, instructions will be provided by our reception team at the time of booking.
We understand that cancellations are sometimes required and can be unpredictable. If you cancel your appointment with less than 24 hours notice, a fee of $50 will be charged. If more than 24 hours notice is provided, we will charge a $10 fee to cover administration costs and the remainder of your consultation fee will be reimbursed.

The time frame to receive a result for a genetic test can vary depending on the specific test and the laboratory selected. Different test options will be discussed with you by your genetic counsellor and clinical geneticist, to suit your personal situation. In some cases, results are available within 2-4 weeks. In other cases, results can take several months. Your genetic counsellor and clinical geneticist will explain to you the recommended testing pathway for you, as well as the anticipated time frame for results during your appointment.

Your doctor can make a referral via Healthlink. If you already have a referral, please contact reception to organise a booking.

Email: enquiries@geneticcare.com.au

Tel: 03 8548 0312