Clinical Genetics
The Genetics Clinic works with individuals and families who have a genetic condition or are at risk of developing a genetic condition. Our team of physicians and genetic counsellors meets with individuals at all stages of life, from preconception and pregnancy through to birth, childhood, and adulthood.
Who We Are
Medical Geneticists are physicians with specialized training in the diagnosis and medical management of genetic conditions.
Genetic Counsellors are health care professionals who provide patients and their families with up-to-date, accurate information and support them in understanding and adapting to a new or pre-existing personal or family history of a genetic condition.
Together, we can help you to make informed medical and personal decisions to improve your health care journey. We can also be a resource for your health care provider.
Who Should be Referred to Genetics?
There are many reasons people are referred to our clinic. Some common reasons include:
For Patients
What to Expect
You will meet with a genetic counsellor and/or a geneticist (physician). We will ask questions about your medical history and family’s medical history so that we can understand your concerns and provide you with accurate information.
Genetic testing is available for some conditions. Once this testing is explained, you can decide whether you wish to proceed with genetic testing or not. Genetic testing usually involves a blood test. There is usually no cost to you for genetic testing arranged through our clinic.
You and/or your relative may be diagnosed with a specific genetic condition. This could happen to anyone at any time during their life. You will be given information about what this diagnosis means for you and/or other members of your family.
Sometimes, it may be best for another member of your family to be seen in the genetics clinic as the most informative testing begins with an individual who has been diagnosed with a certain disease or condition.
Appointments with Genetics may be in-person or virtual (video or telephone).
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Depending on the reason for your referral, a physical exam may be performed.
Referral Information
We require a referral from a physician, midwife or nurse practitioner. If you wish to have an assessment in our clinic, please contact your health care provider to facilitate the referral. Our referral form can be found here: Genetics Clinic Referral REFG0010. Referrals can also be made via our hospital system EPIC
Helpful information to give to your health-care provider:
Relevant family history including:
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Who in the family has the condition(s).
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How are they related to you.
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Age at diagnosis.
Medical information such as:
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Previous genetic test results.
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Physician’s consultation letter(s) relevant to the diagnosis.
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Pathology reports.
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Test results, such as x-rays, ultrasounds, blood work.
Privacy
We understand some patients may be worried that having genetic testing may cause difficulty with getting insurance or employment. In Canada, the federal government has passed a law called the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act (GNA) which provides protection to individuals who pursue genetic testing from being discriminated against by insurance companies or employers. For more information, please read this information package by the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors here.
Private Pay Options
For patients who do not meet criteria for OHIP-funded genetic testing, self-pay options may be available. Most self-pay genetic testing options are organized at out- of-country laboratories and are arranged by your primary care provider.
Contact Information
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The Genetics Clinic can be reached at 905-433-2733.
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We are located at Lakeridge Health’s Oshawa Hospital, on the second floor of the R. S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre (C wing).
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From the main lobby of the hospital, take the escalator to the second floor. On the second floor, turn left and continue down the hallway into the Cancer Centre (C Wing). Follow the sign to Clinical Genetics.
Meet the Team
