Information for patients

Who are we?

Genetic Health Queensland (GHQ) is the state-wide public genetics service in QLD. We provide diagnosis, assessment, counselling and management advice for people and families with genetic conditions. Our clinical team consists of doctors (clinical geneticists) and genetic counsellors. We see people across the lifespan including children, adults and individuals or couples who are pregnant or planning a family.

Our doctors and counsellors see patients with a range of genetic conditions and in a number of settings (see ‘Our services’). Learn more about our team.

Our services

GHQ offers outpatient appointments with our clinical geneticists and genetic counsellors. Depending on the nature of your referral, your appointment might be face-to-face, by telehealth or by telephone.

While we are based in Brisbane, we also see patients in other hospitals across the state and by telehealth (where appropriate). See our clinic locations and services list.

Below is a list of some of the reasons people might be referred to GHQ:

• Children or adults with a genetic or chromosomal diagnosis (known or suspected)
• Children or adults with multiple congenital anomalies, significant developmental delay or intellectual disability or significant concerns with growth
• Individuals with a personal and/or family history of a genetic condition who are seeking counselling, particularly before starting their family
• Individuals who have a personal or strong family history of cancer
• Pregnant couples with a baby suspected or known to have a genetic condition
• Couples who are at an increased risk of having a child with a genetic condition because of:

• • personal or family history of an inherited condition
  • exposure to substances that increases the chances of a structural difference in baby

Genetic counselling

Genetic counselling is a collaborative process of providing information about a genetic condition to individuals who are affected or at risk. This includes discussion about:

• nature of condition, clinical course, management and surveillance
• genetic basis, inheritance pattern, and risk to family members
• indications, types, and outcomes of genetic testing
• advice and options for family planning
• psychosocial, familial and ethical implications.