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Genetics Clinics

Understanding Your Inherited Risk

About 20% of cancers are linked to inherited genetic changes passed down through families. Understanding your risk can help guide how you’re screened, monitored, and treated.

At Illinois CancerCare Genetics, you and your family are at the center of every decision. We’ll listen to your story, review your personal and family history, and help you decide if genetic testing is right for you.

You’ll receive clear education, personalized recommendations, and ongoing support—so you can make informed choices for yourself and the people you love.

Testing is simple and non invasive. Most patients provide a blood or saliva sample. Results can clarify your cancer risk, help explain a diagnosis, and guide individualized screening, prevention, and treatment. Testing is always your choice, and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Expanding Access to Prevention and Early Detection

We are proud to support initiatives that help identify risk earlier and prevent cancer whenever possible:

Lynch Syndrome Screening for Colorectal Cancer

Through a grant from the Illinois CancerCare Foundation, we are expanding access to universal screening for Lynch syndrome in patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the Peoria area.

  • This simple test is performed on a tumor sample
  • It helps identify individuals who may have an inherited cancer risk
  • Results can guide care for patients and their families

Our goal is to identify at-risk families early—before cancer develops—and take steps to prevent it.

Breast Cancer Risk Assessment and Management

In partnership with the Susan G. Komen Breast Center, we are improving how we identify and support individuals at increased risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

  • Patients are screened to determine their level of risk
  • Those identified as moderate or high risk are referred to our genetics team
  • We provide education, risk management strategies, and personalized care plans

By identifying risk early, we can help reduce the chance of cancer developing—or detect it at its most treatable stage.

Genetics Process

We designed this process to be straightforward, supportive, and guided by the latest evidence.

Learn How it Works

Risk Assessment

If you are concerned about inherited cancer risk because of your personal history, your family history, or both, we are here to help.

Learn What to Expect

Genetics Clinic Appointment Request

Request an appointment today to see if genetics services are a good fit for your needs.

Request an Appointment

Genetics Referral for Providers

We partner with referring clinicians to provide comprehensive genetic counseling, risk assessment, and testing for patients with inherited cancer risk.

Learn About Referrals

Understanding Genetics Clinics

Frequently Asked Questions About Genetics Clinics

Still have questions?

We’re here to help. Reach out to our team if you’d like more information about clinical trials or need guidance on where to start.

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Most insurance plans cover genetic counseling visits, though coverage varies based on your plan and personal or family history. Our team reviews insurance information during scheduling and can assist with billing support if needed.

No. Genetic testing is always your choice. Some patients choose same‑day testing, while others decide to test later or not at all. All options are discussed so you can decide what feels right for you.

Federal law protects individuals from genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment. Your genetics provider will review these protections during your visit.

Results can be relevant to relatives. When it makes sense, we’ll explain inheritance patterns, discuss who else may benefit from testing or increased screening, and guide you on how to share information. Each family member needs their own referral and appointment.

Before testing starts, the laboratory checks your insurance and notifies you of any estimated out-of-pocket costs. You’ll review pricing before deciding to move forward. Financial assistance or self-pay options may be available depending on the lab.