What to expect at an NHS genetic service appointment
Many regional genetics services have their own detailed way of conducting appointments and what happens will depend on why you were referred. If your child has been referred, please bring them to the appointment, and it can be helpful for both parents to attend. If you have been referred you do not have to attend these appointments alone, you can bring a family member, carer or friend. You may be seen by a genetics doctor or genetic counsellor.
What process to expect
- Discuss personal medical information: This may include a physical examination or eye test.
- Talk about the family history: The clinician may draw a family tree with you.
- A genetic test may be offered - This test may be offered to only the person with MAC. This test may be offered to parents of the person as well.
- You can decide if you want to proceed with genetic testing if offered or decide later: There will be lots of opportunity for you to ask questions and discuss in more detail with your clinician.
- There will be opportunity to speak about your thoughts, feelings and concerns regarding the condition.
- You and your clinician will make a plan for any follow up appointments and if you have any questions, you should contact your clinician again
In genetics appointments, genetic testing may be offered, and your genetics doctor or genetic counsellor will be able to discuss in more detail the specifics about you or your family’s condition and why genetic testing is or is not appropriate. Genetic testing may be able to confirm an existing diagnosis, or if a diagnosis has not yet been made it may provide one. This information can be helpful in knowing how to manage the healthcare of the individual with the condition. It may also identify how the condition has been inherited or passed on in the family. It is important to note that the decision to have genetic testing is for the individual with the condition, or the parents or guardians of a child with the condition. Your clinician will be able to support you in making that decision and you are not under any pressure to have a genetic test if you do not feel it is right for you or your family.
Please note regional genetics services may differ in their service to patients.
More on genetics
Head over back to the information on your genetic journey.