Hong Kong Children's Hospital

Genetics and Genomics Clinic

Clinical Genetics Service Unit

Preparing for Your Genetics Appointment

Preparing for Your Genetics Appointment

Why have I been referred to the genetics clinic?

The clinical genetics clinic serves individuals as well as families with suspected or confirmed genetic conditions. The following persons may be referred to our clinic:

  1. Persons with any known or suspected genetic disorder
  2. Persons with a high-risk family history of a known or suspected genetic condition
  3. Pregnant women with abnormal prenatal test result(s)
  4. Women with recurrent abortions of unknown cause
  5. Couples with genetic risks and concerns regarding family planning

Who will attend my genetics appointment?

At your appointment, you will meet a clinical geneticist, who is a doctor specialized in diagnosing and managing conditions with a genetic cause through history taking, pedigree analysis, physical examination and genetic testing.

What events/activities will take place at my first genetics appointment?

Your first genetics appointment generally lasts for approximately 45 to 60 minutes and it often includes:

  1. Review of current condition and past medical history
    The doctor will ask about the problem that has brought you to the clinic in detail. We will also review your past health history in all aspects, including medical, developmental, and pregnancy / birth history.
  2. Review of Family history
    The medical details of your relatives will be asked (such as birth, death, relationship, age of onset and symptoms of certain diseases, and past health history). The doctor will draw a family tree (pedigree) based on the information you provide for further analysis.
  3. Physical Examination and Assessment
    A physical examination may be performed on you or your family members. Photographs may be taken to help documenting specific physical features.
  4. Genetic Testing (if necessary)
    Our doctor may order appropriate genetic tests (including cytogenetic, molecular genetics and genomics studies) for diagnosis if necessary. Explanation will be given to you, and your informed consent will be obtained prior to testing.
  5. Other laboratory tests and referrals (if necessary)
    Other tests or exams may be required to make a diagnosis. You and your family may be referred to other specialties if needed.

First genetics appointment procedures

  1. Review on Medical & Family History
  2. Physical Examination
  3. Genetic Counselling
    *Please note that Steps 4 to 5 will proceed if genetic test is offered.
  4. Sign a Consent
  5. Specimen Collection
  6. Additional Exams & Referral (if necessary)
  7. Book next Appointment

What preparations should I make for my appointment?

  1. Gather your personal and family medical history
  2. Bring along any private medical records related to your concerns (e.g. laboratory results or imaging reports)
  3. Bring a list of questions and concerns
  4. If the appointment is related to your child who is under 18, both you and your partner (or legal guardian if applicable) should accompany your child and attend the appointment together.

What can I expect after my appointment?

After the clinic appointment, our geneticist will let you know if another follow-up appointment is needed based on the complexity of your condition. If you become pregnant while awaiting your test results or follow-up, please contact us immediately for review.

What should I bring on appointment day?

  1. Your appointment slip
  2. Personal Identification document of the patient* (e.g. HKID card, HK birth certificate or passport)
    *Please provide the infant's immunization record and mother's HKID card if HK birth certificate is not yet available
  3. Personal identification document of the parents / guardians if patient is under 18 (e.g. HKID card or passport)
  4. Other relevant private medical report(s) that may help us understand your condition (e.g. referral letter, child health record, child assessment summary, laboratory and imaging reports)

For further enquires, you may contact us.
Clinical Genetics Service Unit
Address: Specialist Outpatient Clinic, 1/F, Tower B, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, 1 Shing Cheong Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Office Tel: 5741 3186