Gene Testing

I am one with a strong family history of breast cancer from Great Great grandma down, I have had many cysts so far and have aske my dr about the testing for the gene and he said that it was way too expensive and insurance dont want to pay for it and if it came back positive that he would want the person to act on it right away. He discouraged me completely from having it and would not talk any more on the subject and I just wanted some advice on it. Thank you so much.

[rkmsim]

OH, your doctor makes me so angry!!!  It's doctors like that who shouldn't be practicing medicine!  I also have a family history of cancer, including myself.  I had genetic testing done in 2004 and yes, insurance did pay for it.  I am BRCA1+.  My daughters, who are in their 30's have not been tested yet, but insurance will pay for it (they checked).  My doctors were very supportive and encouraged me to have the testing done.  As a result, I had a bilateral mastectomy (previously had a lumpectomy) and DIEP reconstruction.  I also had my ovaries removed to reduce my risk of ovarian cancer.  Please visit the FORCE website at www.facingourrisk.org to get more information on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.  They also have a great message board where you can learn a great deal.

[Lacyperal]

Thank you so much, I wished I could pick a doctor like you have. This one I go to, they say is the best but I am not so sure now.

[Lacyperal]

My doctor finally said it would be up t me if I would like it done and to check with insurance, so I did and my insurance said they pay nothing for the testing. Is there a low cost place for this or will I just be out of hope fo now?

[boninclyde]

The testing office should help you appeal and fight this. Speak directly to a genetics office. They will be able to give you some advice. See another doctor. Some doctors will not even try to get you tested because they have to get involved and help you fight your insurance to get the test and it gets way to time consuming for them. Maybe another doctor.