Risk assessment is an estimate of the likelihood that you or your children have, or will develop symptoms of, a genetic disorder.  NNGC  assesses your risk based on:

• your family history
• knowledge of the disorder that concerns you, including a review of up-to-date research
• an expert understanding of the complexities of genetics
• available models for estimating hereditary risk 

Risk assessment in genetic counseling routinely involves collecting health information on you and your family.  A family tree, or pedigree, of your family will be drawn at our appointment.  The more accurate the health information you provide about your family, the more accurate your risk assessment.  Health risks, other than the concern that led you to genetic counseling, may be revealed by your pedigree, and will be discussed.  We may ask for documentation of health problems in family members by accessing and reviewing medical records and pathology reports.  This increases the accuracy of your risk assessment.  Click here for the "My Family Health Portrait", the U.S. Surgeon General's tool for tracking your family medical history

If testing (genetic testing or other testing) is availalbe to you, or your family members, Dr. Palmer communicates, as needed, with laboratories about your situation.  Your test results are interpreted and discussed with you.

After the genetic counseling appointment a review letter of the appointment, including your risk assessment, is sent to you, or to your doctor with a copy to you.

The Benefits of Genetic Counseling

The goal of genetic counseling is to educate you about your hereditary health risks and encourage you to participate in your healthcare.  The benefits of genetic counseling include that:

• you understand your hereditary health risks and your options for managing those risks

• you can better anticipate and manage associated health problems

• you understand the health risks for other family members, including your children