Nondiscrimination Policy Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To read our full Nondiscrimination Statement, click here.

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Cancer Genetics

Treatments and Services

Before your visit, please gather information about your family’s cancer history — including the exact types of cancer, ages at diagnosis, and any genetic test results from relatives who have been tested.  

At your appointment, a licensed and board-certified genetic counselor will:

  • Review your medical history and detailed family history
  • Assess whether a hereditary cancer risk may be present in your family
  • Recommend appropriate cancer screening and surveillance strategies
  • Discuss the option of genetic testing, including what the results may mean for you and your family
  • Review the cost of genetic testing and potential insurance coverage

Our clinic offers telehealth and in-person genetics consultations.  If genetic testing is recommended, your genetic counselor will arrange a blood draw at your convenience.  For certain patients who are not able to visit the BMC campus, other options for collecting your sample may be possible; speak to your genetic counselor for more information. 

High-Risk Cancer Genetics Clinic 

The BMC Cancer Center offers a weekly High-Risk Cancer Genetics Clinic for patients who have already completed genetic counseling and testing. Staffed by both genetic counselors and medical providers, the clinic helps patients understand and manage their cancer risks and connects them with appropriate screenings and referrals. We can also help suggest the best approach for the genetic testing of other family members at risk.

For more information, call Cancer Genetics at 617.638.6428. Interpreter services are available.