Do Genetic Services Cost?

Genetic services are offered free of charge to the general public in Ontario as per the Minstry of Health Guidelines.  All genetic tests that are deemed necessary and are offered to you by the genetics nurse counsellor/geneticist are covered by OHIP.  A valid OHIP number is necessary for a genetic consultation and for testing to be offered to you.  Some tests, however, do require the samples to be sent to other parts of the world (USA, UK) as not all tests are done in the Canadian laboratories.  In those cases, and with your written consent, we send an application to OHIP to cover the testing expenses.

What if I am not eligible for a genetic test?

As the option of genetic testing becomes more available to the public or what is called "direct to consumer" genetic testing, people may be interested in certain genetic tests to see if they are susceptible to certain diseases/disorders.  This type of genetic testing IS NOT covered by OHIP and the consumer must pay for these tests out of their own pocket.  We urge you to speak to your health care provider before considering this type of testing and also to receive genetic counselling BEFORE you do undergo any kind of genetic testing to learn about the risks and benefits of this kind of testing.