This depends on your insurance plan. Most insurance plans cover visits to a specialist if you already have a diagnosis of cancer. If you are unaffected by cancer and have a family history, your visit may be covered under your wellness plan.
In the fall of 2013, the Affordable Care Act may mandate that your visit be covered by your insurance as a preventive medicine measure.
The physician will go over your personal as well as your family history with you. If testing is appropriate, it can be performed the day of your initial visit.
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), enacted in May of 2008, provides federal protection from genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment. It is possible to face difficulty acquiring life insurance if you have cancer or a known genetic mutation.
This question will be addressed at your appointment. The physician will explain how genetic problems are inherited and give you advice regarding testing or surveillance of your family members.
The genetic testing companies will verify your insurance coverage for you and will let you know if your test is not covered. You will then have the option of cancelling your test and owing nothing.