Information for patients

For the diagnosis of a genetic condition it is necessary to collect detailed information about both the patient's medical conditions (patient history) and his or her relative's medical conditions (family history). A central aspect of a genetic counseling visit is the creation of a family tree. Before your visit, it can therefore be useful to ask your relatives what medical conditions occured in your family.

Please gather all of your medical records and, if possible, of any family members who may also be affected by a genetic condition. These may include patient notes, ultrasound findings, X-ray findings, CT findings and MR findings.

If you bring your child for a genetic counseling visit we are interested in knowing what symptoms have occurred, if your child is prone to certain diseases, if your child has had any operations and which tests have been performed (e.g. hearing test). Please bring all medical records relating to your child.

If you do not have private heath insurance you will need to be referred by a practitioner. To avoid long waiting times please make an appointment by telephone.

After a genetic counseling visit, a report will be sent to you or to your physician if preferred. The report will contain a statement of your original concern, information you provided about your family tree, a report of examinations that have been performed or are recommended and an evaluation of your request.

Depending on the results of the genetic testing you may be asked to come back for a follow-up appointment in which the genetic counselor will explain the diagnosis and refer you to other medical specialists. In some cases, especially when children are concerned, it may be advisable to come back at a later date if it was impossible to provide an appropriate diagnosis during the first visit. If you have any questions, please contact us by telephone.