Genetic Services

Genetic Services Patient Resources

Genetics Department Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You and your family may have questions about genetic testing and genetic counseling. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

What is a genetics appointment?: A genetics appointment helps evaluate whether a medical condition may be inherited (passed down in families). During your visit, a genetics provider will review your medical and family history and discuss whether genetic testing may be helpful.
Who should be referred to Genetics?: Patients may be referred to Genetics for:

A personal or family history of genetic conditions.

Congenital (birth) differences.

Developmental delays or autism.

Cancer risk assessment.

Cardiomyopathy or cardiac conditions.

Neurologic or neuromuscular conditions.

Pregnancy-related genetic concerns.

Abnormal genetic test results.
Do you offer paternity or relationship testing?: No. Our Genetics Department doesn’t perform or order genetic testing to establish paternity or biological relationships. Patients seeking paternity testing should contact local county child support or family services.
Do you order methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation genetic testing?: No. We don’t order genetic testing for MTHFR variants. However, we can review prior testing and provide counseling.
Do you offer pharmacogenomic (medication-related) testing or counseling?: No. We don’t provide pharmacogenomic testing or medication-specific counseling.
Do I need a referral?: Yes, most appointments require a referral.
How do I schedule an appointment?: Call 216-844-3936 – Option 1. Outside UH, have your physician fax your referral to 216-844-7497.
How long is the appointment?: Initial appointments are 60 to 90 minutes.
Will I have genetic testing at my appointment?: Not always. It depends on your medical history, prior testing and insurance.
Does insurance cover genetic testing?: Coverage varies by insurance plan.
How long before I receive my genetic test results?: Most results take 2 to 8 weeks.
What should I bring?: Insurance card and photo ID

Medication list

Family medical history

Prior genetic test results
What if I need to cancel?: Please notify us at least 24 hours in advance.
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., EST
Contact: Scheduling: 216-844-3936

Test results: MyChart or phone

Insurance/billing: contact billing department

Accessing Your Medical Records

To learn how to obtain a copy of your medical records from a University Hospitals inpatient facility or outpatient facility, please visit our medical records page.