Medical genetic testing: which choices belong in written consent?

When a clinician proposes constitutional genetic testing for medical purposes in France, your express consent is obtained in writing before the test. These notes concern an adult who can express their own choices in a medical care pathway.

The consent document states the medical indication for the test. Before signing, ask the clinician to explain what the analysis is investigating in your situation and what kind of test it is. This links your agreement to a specific medical question.

Where relevant, the information covers incidental findings unrelated to the original purpose that could enable prevention or care for you or your family. Ask about the option to decline disclosure of these findings and the risks that refusal could pose to affected relatives.

You can withdraw this consent wholly or partly at any time, without a particular formal procedure. If your preferences change, tell the prescribing clinician and clarify the scope of your choice before the test is carried out.

The results are communicated in an individual medical consultation. A genetic counsellor may also communicate them within their authorised role. Ask how that appointment will be arranged and prepare the terms in the report that you would like explained.

The consent, prescription and reports are kept in the prescribing clinician’s medical record. The laboratory sends the results to that clinician without adding them to the shared medical record. If you need a report, ask the medical team how to obtain the document and its explanation.