The Importance of Genetic Counseling with Gene Counsel Co-Founder & CEO: A Future-Focused Approach to Personalized Healthcare

Ellen Matloff, a pioneer in genetic counseling, played a significant role at Yale by establishing and leading the Cancer Genetic Counseling program. With her extensive experience and credentials as a certified genetic counselor, she identified an emerging need within the field of genomics. It was in 2013 after witnessing several pivotal incidents that Ellen recognized the necessity for an innovative solution to stay abreast of advancements in genomics. This realization led to her co-founding Gene Counsel with the vision of developing digital tools designed to enhance the understanding and application of genomic information. Her initiative underscores the importance of integrating technology with healthcare to address the challenges posed by the fast-paced evolution of medical science.

The Origins of My Gene Counsel

Danielle Bonadies and her business partner, both with a rich background in genetic counseling at Yale’s Cancer Genetic Counseling Program, noticed a significant trend: the surge in genetic testing. They observed that many who underwent these tests lacked proper guidance from genetic counselors. This gap wasn’t due to neglect; rather, medical professionals often found themselves navigating these waters solo because of the absence of available specialists or daunting wait lists. Such scenarios led to errors that could have dire effects on individuals and their families.

Identifying this challenge as an opportunity, they envisioned blending their deep understanding of genetic counseling with innovative technology. The result was the creation of Living Lab Reports. These dynamic reports not only deliver crucial data to patients and healthcare providers but also continually update them through emails or text messages, ensuring everyone involved is always informed.

Why is genetic counseling vital for those undergoing genetic testing?

Genetic counseling is crucial as it guides individuals to the most suitable test for their needs, ensuring they grasp and apply their outcomes correctly. Without this support, genetic testing can do more harm than good, highlighting the undeniable importance of high-quality genetic counseling.

What are the main issues or dangers of at-home genetic testing and its outcomes for users?

The primary worry is that folks might be shelling out cash for a genetic test that misses the mark, potentially causing more problems than solutions. Concerns about what happens to your DNA results once they land in a company’s hands are also valid.

Please explain how your service operates and the steps involved for customers

Our primary clients include health organizations, genetic analysis firms, research entities, and businesses that cover the cost for their customers to access our Living Lab Reports

What expenses should users anticipate with your service?

Most folks will get their bills paid for by the company when they receive Living Lab Reports at no charge. If your provider, be it a health system or a genetic testing outfit, isn’t offering this perk, don’t hesitate to request it!

Tips for individuals considering personal genetics tests

Before diving into a direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic test with the intent to uncover serious health-related information, it’s wise to have a chat with an expert. A certified genetic counselor should be your go-to person for guidance on choosing the appropriate test that fits your needs. Luckily, finding one is easier than ever before. Simply head over to NSGC.org, look up their ‘find a counselor’ section, and you’re all set! What’s more, if you’d rather not meet in person, phone consultations are an option too.

On the flip side, if curiosity about your roots or simply a fun exploration of your ancestry is what’s driving you towards a DTC test, pause for a moment. It’s crucial to fully grasp how these tests handle privacy—not just yours but also that of your family members. The digital age has made sharing information easier but also raised questions about privacy protection. So before leaping into the world of genetics for entertainment or family history purposes, make sure you understand what you’re signing up for regarding data security and confidentiality.