Introduction
The Division
of Medical Genetics as part of the Department of Pediatrics at Beth Israel
Medical Center offers a full range of comprehensive genetic services. We provide
genetic counseling and medical genetics consultations for a wide range of
prenatal and postnatal conditions. Our staff is under the direction of Alejandro
Iglesias, MD, who is board certified in pediatrics, clinical genetics and
biochemical genetics. In addition, two board certified genetic counselors
with an extensive experience in genetic disorders are part of our permanent
staff. Moreover, at Long Island College Hospital a third genetic counselor
provides services for the Brooklyn community. She is also under the supervision
of the Division Chief.
Genetic counseling services are provided by certified professionals who help you understand scientific, medical and genetic information relating to your family history, medical history and/or pregnancy. They help clarify the risks for occurrence or recurrence of an inherited condition in specified family members. They help patients and families make sense of complex options for testing and interventions and explain the results of diagnostic tests. Based on a counselor’s risk assessment, individuals and families are able to make informed medical decisions in a supportive environment that affirms their cultural, religious and ethical beliefs.
In addition to providing education and support services to families with genetic concerns, counselors are also involved in coordinating testing and connecting patients and families with national and community informational resources, including support groups and funding agencies.
The staff of the Division of Medical Genetics has been educated on cultural issues relevant to Caucasian and non-Caucasian communities. Moreover, our staff has received sensitivity training on self-awareness of cultural and racial biases.
Patients are scheduled on a need to be seen basis five days a week in order to accommodate work schedules.