Counseling Services

The Division of Genetics at the University of Rochester Medical Center (Strong Memorial Hospital) provides genetic services to help individuals and families improve their health outlook. Many risks to health are determined by one's genes. The first step in learning about one's genes is collecting a careful medical history of one's family.

Genetic Services Provided

Counseling. Genetic counseling is a process in which the genetic counselor helps the individual or family evaluate their choices in view of their genetic risk. The goal is to help the patient evaluate the degree to which each of their options fulfills their goal of staying healthy themselves and having a healthy family.

Testing. In an increasing proportion of cases, testing can resolve uncertainty about one's genetic risk. Such testing most often involves taking only a blood sample like other medical tests. In many cases, the DNA can be directly examined to answer the question at hand.

Why Genetic Services?

Reproductive planning. A couple who learns about their genetic risks can take it into account in planning children. In many cases, birth defects can be tested for during pregnancy and some couples will decide not to have a child if the defect is serious.

Peace of mind. Uncertainty is often the hardest to bear. Many persons find that discovering the facts is the best course for them. Many overestimate their genetic risk and are relieved to receive a more accurate estimate. Testing can often show that a person who had assumed that they had inherited a harmful gene actually had not.

How to Make an Appointment

• Genetic susceptibility to cancer
• Cystic fibrosis
• Hemoglobinopathies

For all other genetic conditions call Mary True at 585-275-3461.

Comments/Suggestions to: Mary_True@urmc.rochester.edu