I began working with Genetic Support Foundation (GSF) in the fall of 2014, two years after its founding, a decade ago. I have held a few different titles, (consultant, genetic counselor, director of clinical services, executive director) and worn about every hat possible (provider, scheduler, project manager, supervisor, janitor!). As I reflect on my years, …
At Genetic Support Foundation our work ensures that the people we serve have up-to-date and balanced information about genetics and health. We support individuals as they make informed and autonomous decisions about genetics and their health that are based on objective, balanced information that is free from commercial influence and other such biases. The importance …
The Importance of Timely Access to Objective Genetic Counseling Read More »
Rectangularly black flag with 5 straight lines going from the upper left corner to the lower right. The top line is a light kelly green, the second is a light sky blue, the middle stripe is white, the 2nd from the bottom is a light yellow and the bottom stripe is a light red.
In 2012 when Dr. Jon Wolff founded Genetic Support Foundation (GSF) he envisioned the newly formed non-profit organization would provide “unbiased, expert and compassionate care for patients.” Not only does this year mark the ten year anniversary of our founding but this week in particular marks the somber two year anniversary of Jon’s passing. These …
Hello Genetic Support Foundation friends, followers and family! Genetic counseling services are not yet recognized for reimbursement by Medicare. As genetic technology expands and holds promise to improve health for all people, Medicare recognition is perhaps the single most important action to be taken that could ensure people have access to independent genetic counseling services. …
Family health history is one of the most important ways to understand the likelihood of future health developments. While gathering this information is recommended, it’s not always easy. Compiling this information allows doctors and other healthcare professionals to see the bigger picture of health patterns that can be related to genetic and hereditary conditions. With …
Does it Run in the Family? How to Gather the Health Info You Need Read More »
Ryan Murtha spent his summer rotation with GSF. A student at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute for Health Professions, Murtha says he can’t wait to come back to the Pacific Northwest. Courtesy photo. In the fall of 2019, the prospect of an internship where I’d see patients primarily through Zoom seemed novel, if not a bit …
GSF Intern Reflects on Learning in the Time of Covid Read More »
You’ve just received your very own saliva collection kit- congratulations! Now you’re left with the somewhat daunting task of providing a sample. Set aside etiquette concerns and start thinking about your favorite meal or snack- let’s get those saliva glands into full gear! Step 1: Nothing by mouth for 30 minutes I hope you read …
“How to Spit” A guide on how to provide a saliva sample for genetic testing Read More »
In the world of genetics, we often use the term Knowledge is Power. Gaining that knowledge usually starts with a genetic counseling appointment, then spreads into research, support groups, podcasts, you name it. When it comes to those of us with hereditary cancer risk, we can often be hungry for even more knowledge. One of …
Must-Reads for Women with Hereditary Cancer Risk Read More »
If two months ago someone would have told me where we are today, I would have never believed them. Businesses are shuttered, surgeries canceled and postponed indefinitely, standard-of-care medical treatments being suspended or delayed, people attending important medical appointments and learning life-changing information without the support of a loved one. It is stunning how much …
