Deciding whether to have the genetic test

Finding out about and telling others about HD

Living with genetic risk and testing

Getting information when required (e.g. on family life with HD, emotional wellbeing & coping skills, condition information and access to services)

Advice to help decide whether genetic testing is right for you

Predictive testing

Diagnostic testing

Clinical Genetics

HD Specialist Service  ( HD Specialist, HD Clinical Lead, Specialist Youth Advisors, Financial Wellbeing Officer )

GP

Neuropsychology

Psychiatry

Clients without symptoms but with a family history of HD, and who wish to consider predictive testing, should be referred to the local genetics service. All referrals to local Dept. of Clinical Genetics  can be made by any health & social care professional, most commonly GP, HD Specialist, HD Clinical Lead, Psychiatry & Specialist Youth Advisors. Clients describing a family history of the disease can also self-refer to Clinical Genetics if preferred.

Clients with symptoms suggestive of HD, and a known family history of HD, should be referred to the HD Specialist Service

Clients with symptoms which could be due to HD, but with no known family history of HD, can be offered a diagnostic genetic test directly by neurology clinics. Prior to testing clients must be informed that they are being tested for a hereditary condition, and that there will be implications for them and their wider family if they test positive. If HD is confirmed, such clients should be referred to the HD Clinic.

SCI Gateway should clearly identify HD Clinical Leads

It must not be assumed that clients with a family history of HD choosing not to take the test, or receiving a negative result, require no further support. Access to further support and advice – such as that provided by Clinical Genetics, HD Specialist, Specialist Youth Advisor, Clinical Health Psychology / Neuropsychology, and talking therapy services – should be offered.

The International Protocol for Testing should be followed unless a clinical decision has been made to follow a local alternative.

All appointments should meet the treatment time guarantee and referral standards of individual services used.

Whoever is designated as lead professional should take responsibility for coordinating the support each client requires throughout their testing journey.

People living with the genetic risk of HD and their families have easy access to accurate and understandable information, receive emotional and practical support and feel supported through all testing choices and outcomes.