Refer a patient

Why Refer

Hereditary diseases are often rare and affected families require specialist advice and services. As increased knowledge about genetics, genomics and personalised medicine reaches the clinical realm, our clinicians and scientists provide families with accurate and up-to-date information with support at the most appropriate times. We are a pro-active, culturally sensitive and family-centred service. Genetic counselling is a specific skill associated with a code of ethics and may be provided by both specialist and non-genetic colleagues where indicated.

Who to Refer

• Children or adults with a genetic or chromosomal diagnosis
• Children or adults with congenital anomalies and/or developmental delay
• Anyone with a personal and/or family history of a genetic condition who is seeking updated information, particularly before starting their family
• Individuals who have a personal or strong family history of cancer
• Pregnant women who are affected, or who have a family history of an inherited condition
• Couples who are at an increased risk of having children with a genetic condition because of:
  • their ethnic background
  • consanguinity (partners are related e.g. first cousins)
  • an increased risk result from screening tests during pregnancy
  • exposure to drugs, alcohol, chemicals, infection or radiation during pregnancy.

Making a Referral

Genetic Health Queensland (GHQ) is a statewide clinical genetics service. We have staff based in most major metropolitan centres across Queensland. We are happy to receive referrals for patients across Queensland and across all age groups. We strive to see patients in a clinic close to their place of residence, or if appropriate, by telehealth.

As our clinics are bulk-billed, please ensure your referral is addressed to one of our consultants. Once your referral has been received, both you and your patient will receive a letter of acknowledgment. Please ensure you discuss your referral plans with your patient before referring.

All referrals can be sent to the Metro North Central Patient Intake Unit via fax to 1300 364 952. See the relevant Clinical Prioritisation Criteria link below.

It would be helpful if your referral contained the following information:

• patient’s full name and date of birth
• patient’s contact details including postal address and telephone number(s)
• any requirement  for an urgent appointment (e.g. pregnancy, terminal illness, or ward consult)
• detailed reason for referral
• sufficient clinical details and relevant family history
• details of other family members who may have attended GHQ, including family reference number (if known)
• copies of any relevant reports or investigations

If you would like to discuss the details of a particular referral or case, you are welcome to contact our on call genetic counsellor, registrar, or clinical geneticist during office hours.