Table 1.

Special considerations of genetic testing

Genetic testing can have a role in both medical management and personal decision-making Genetic test results usually have implications not only for the patient, but also for other family members Genetic testing may be performed as a part of a genetic consultation or routine primary care. In either case, testing should involve informed consent, careful discussions of test interpretation, and follow-up medical and psychosocial services Genetic tests are often conducted in specialized laboratories and may require extra time to complete Intense research efforts in molecular genetics result in an increasing availability of new genetic tests, which requires primary care providers to constantly update their knowledge For genetic tests to yield meaningful results, multiple tests may be required, other family members may need to be tested, and consultation with a genetics professional may be appropriate Genetic testing can be costly, and insurance coverage for such services varies