Genetic Counselor how-to

How to Disclose a Positive Result

Careful disclosure supports patients.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Careful disclosure supports patients. In short: prepare; share; pause, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Prepare privately.

  2. Share the result clearly.

  3. Pause for reactions.

  4. Explain what it means.

  5. Discuss next steps.

  6. Offer support resources.

Safety reminders for genetic counselors

  • Protect genetic privacy
  • Get informed consent
  • Avoid overstating results
  • Support emotional safety

Pedigree · Variant · Pathogenic · VUS · Carrier · Autosomal dominant: see the full genetic counselor glossary.

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