For people with a significant family history of hereditary cancers, the uncertainty of not knowing the likelihood of developing the disease can cause anxiety. Genetic counseling and testing can provide critical information to help these patients understand their risk factors and, especially, how to mitigate them. 

“One of our major roles as genetic counselors is educating patients,” says Amanda Matchette, Licensed/Certified Genetic Counselor at WellSpan Health. “In addition to explaining the testing and what it entails to patients, we talk about how the results can impact them and their families. If the patient elects to receive testing, we discuss the results with them, connect them to resources and refer them to providers when needed.” 

Identifying Candidates for Genetic Counseling 

Physicians consider many factors when determining whether a patient is a candidate for genetic counseling. Risk factors include having: 

• Relatives diagnosed with certain cancers before age 50
• Multiple family members diagnosed with the same type of cancer or related cancers, such as breast and/or ovarian cancer
• A family member diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, such as breast cancer in males
• A relative with a genetic mutation in a tumor suppression gene, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2

The American College of Genetics and Genomics and the National Society of Genetic Counselors have published detailed guidelines on identifying people who may be appropriate for genetic counseling. At WellSpan Health, genetic counselors also work directly with physicians. 

“When we receive referrals, we collaborate with the physician to verify the patient being referred is a good candidate for genetic counseling,” Matchette says. “We also offer education within our system to help referring providers be aware of the criteria, including the national guidelines. But we always welcome physicians to ask us questions directly as well.” 

Knowledge and Dedication 

The experienced genetic counselors at WellSpan Health are committed to helping patients understand their options and make the decisions that are right for them. 

“We take the time to discuss each patients’ questions and concerns,” Matchette says. “Because this is our specialty, we are able to sit down with them and have a 60-minute conversation, if necessary, which is something most physicians don’t have the time to do. We want to help people make informed decisions for themselves and their families.” 

Within the last decade, genetics technology has evolved greatly, allowing labs to look at more genes at one time and identify more genetic changes than earlier testing. In addition to oncology, WellSpan Health also offers genetic testing in cardiology, neurology and other areas.  

To learn more about genetic counseling and testing at WellSpan Health, visit wellspan.org/programs/wellspan-cancer-institute/genetic-counseling.