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Our team of compassionate, highly trained urologists provides comprehensive treatment options tailored to your individual needs. We’re here to guide you with expertise, respect, and care — every step of the way.
Texas Oncology is a leader in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials in Texas, paving the way for new breakthroughs in cancer care.
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There is no one-sized-fits all genetic test! A visit helps to ensure that the correct genetic test is ordered and helps you understand the risks, benefits and limitations of genetic testing, as well as the implications for you and your family.
The cost of a genetic visit and genetic test varies by insurance. Most insurance companies cover the cost of genetic evaluation minus any copay, unmet deductible or co-insurance.
If you choose to have genetic testing, the specialized genetic lab will bill your insurance directly. Most genetic testing labs will contact you via text, phone or email to discuss your out-of-pocket cost. In general, genetic testing is well covered for people with a personal and or family history of cancer. Most people pay between $0 and $250 for genetic testing. This will be discussed at your visit.
If you have a genetic change or a positive genetic test result, it is important to remember that while this may increase your risk for cancer, it does not mean that you will develop cancer. Not all positive genetic test results have the same meaning. Based on your specific genetic test results, we can discuss your risks, recommend screenings, procedures, and treatment to help prevent cancer or detect cancer early. We will also discuss how your result may impact your family.
Negative test results means the genetic test you had did not find any known genetic changes that cause an increased cancer risk. We may still recommend changes to your medical care based on your family history of cancer. Our team will also talk with you about regular screening and cancer prevention options. A negative genetic test does not mean you have a zero percent chance of developing cancer.
Current genetic testing can successfully identify known mutations, but it is possible there are genes and mutations that have not been discovered yet. As new genes and mutations are discovered, additional testing may be needed in the future.
It is also important to know that Texas Oncology only offers genetic testing for hereditary cancer conditions or syndromes.
The results of genetic counseling and testing are confidential, with very limited exceptions. Neither your health insurance company nor your employer can require you to have genetic testing. It is also against the law (Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act) for health insurance companies or employers to discriminate against someone based on genetic information. This law does not apply to life, disability, or long-term care insurance, nor to military members, very small employers (< 15 employees), or many federal health plans.
Unfortunately, we have observed an increase in Medicare scams around genetic testing. Some companies contact patients directly via phone offering “free genetic testing” that they claim is covered by Medicare. These offers are often scams. Scammers may ask for your Medicare number or personal information and use it to submit fraudulent bills. Testing should always be ordered by your trusted healthcare provider.
If you are unsure, do not share your Medicare number and contact your healthcare team directly.
