Before having BRCA 1 & 2 testing...

CeciliaVera

...what should I do/know/find out/take care of? 

 

First, I plan to double-check my health insurance coverage as the letter I received "authorizes" the testing as medically necessary (DCIS + IDC, stage 1, grade 2, oncotype 16, dx at age 41) but does not "guarantee" payment. 

 

What else should I do before setting the appointment to have blood drawn for the test?  Someone told me this genetic status could affect my ability to secure life insurance in the future, but I have that already.  Is there anything else I should consider?  I had a very lengthy appointment with a geneticist and genetic counselor, so I think I understand everything thus far, but perhaps one of you can tell me what I might be missing.

 

Thanks in advance!

Good health to all of you.

Moderators

Hi CeceliaVera,

You're sure to get lots of practical advice from the other members here soon! In the meantime, you may be interested in checking out the main Breastcancer.org site's section on Genetic Counseling, which has lots of advice about what to expect and pros and cons to consider. 

We hope this helps!

--The Mods