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Genetic counseling is a communication process, conducted by one (1) or more appropriately trained individuals, that includes:
Estimating the likelihood of occurrence or recurrence of any potentially inherited or genetically influenced condition. This assessment may involve:
Obtaining and analyzing a complete health history of the person and family;
Reviewing pertinent medical records;
Evaluating the risks from exposure to possible mutagens or teratogens; and
Recommending genetic testing or other evaluations to assist in the diagnosis of a condition or determine the carrier status of one (1) or more family members;
Helping the individual, family, health care provider or public to:
Appreciate the medical, psychological and social implications of a disorder, including its features, variability, usual course and management options;
Learn how genetic factors contribute to the disorder and affect the chance for recurrence of the condition in other family members;
Understand available options for coping with, preventing, or reducing the chance of occurrence or recurrence of a condition;
Select the most appropriate, accurate and cost-effective methods of diagnosis; and
Understand genetic tests, including, but not limited to, diagnostic genetic tests, screening tests or predispositional genetic tests, coordinate testing for inherited disorders and interpret complex genetic test results;
Facilitating an individual's or family's:
Exploration of the perception of risk and burden associated with a genetic disorder;
Decision making regarding testing or medical interventions consistent with their beliefs, goals, needs, resources, culture and ethical/moral views; and
Adjustment and adaptation to the condition or their genetic risk by addressing needs for psychological, social and medical support.