Some companies now offer direct-to-consumer (DTC) carrier screening panels. This means that you order the testing yourself through their website, and results are released to you directly. Although it is an online process, our program is NOT direct-to-consumer because it includes an educational course and genetic counseling. Our genetic counselor will review your intake form prior to ordering your test and will call you with your results to ensure you can ask any questions.
The American College of Medical Genetics and the National Society of Genetic Counselors cautions consumers to consider several issues before pursuing direct-to-consumer testing. It is important for consumers to know exactly what testing is being ordered, if they are appropriate tests based on ethnicity and personal and family history, and what the tests will tell them. It is also important to note that genetic counseling is sometimes offered but usually not required through DTC testing. You should discuss this information with your doctor or a genetic counselor before pursuing such testing.