The current state of cancer genetic counseling access and availability.

Abstract

Genetic risk assessment and counseling by a qualified genetics professional are recommended to ensure high-quality care for individuals at risk of hereditary cancer. Timely access to genetic services provided by a genetic counselor (GC) is essential, especially in cases where genetic testing results may affect impending surgical decisions. A survey of GCs who specialize in cancer genetics was performed to assess service delivery models and ability to accommodate urgent cases. Over half of all respondents indicated that urgent patients can be seen for consultation the same day or within 1-2 business days, and almost all respondents indicated that urgent cases can be seen within 1 week. Most respondents indicated that urgent cases are seen by a GC only with no physician involved. The results of this survey of GCs demonstrate that timely access to cancer genetic counseling by GCs in an urgent setting is available.Genet Med 18 4, 410-412.