Get the Facts

Genetic testing can be provided on a clinical or research basis. Genetic testing is routinely performed on a small sample of blood.

Clinical Genetic Testing

For well-characterized genes, laboratories offer clinical genetic testing. This means that the laboratory meets certain federal standards (called CLIA-approval) that ensure reliable genetic testing. Clinical laboratories provide results to patients on a fee-for-service basis. Clinical genetic test results are usually available in 4-6 weeks.

Individuals are often concerned about the risk for insurance discrimination if they undergo genetic testing. These issues will be discussed in detail during the initial genetic counseling session. In general, genetic test results are considered to be highly sensitive information and you need to consider the impact this testing may have on you and your family’s medical, life, and disability insurance. Laws vary from state to state; however, insurance companies in Ohio are not permitted to use pre-symptomatic genetic test results to adversely affect health insurance coverage. The law has been renewed until 2014. The federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act also specifies that pre-symptomatic genetic conditions can not be considered a "pre-existing" condition by large group health insurers. The ability to obtain life and disability insurance are not protected by any legal statutes.

Research Genetic Testing

When a gene has not yet been discovered, is newly discovered, or is not well understood, sometimes genetic testing is available on a research basis. The genetic counselor will determine whether or not you or your family are eligible for any current research studies and will discuss the details of each study with you during your initial genetic counseling session. Depending on the study, researchers may or may not be able to provide you with the results of this testing. Research genetic testing could require the participation of other members of your family as well.