Genetic Counseling and Testing

Do you have patients with a family history of cancer? Or concerned about their risk? A genetic consultation may help.

We offer genetic counseling and testing to:

• Find inherited DNA variations associated with increased risk of cancer

• Help determine the best course of action for patients already diagnosed with cancer

Our unique approach goes beyond a lab test and report. Specially trained genetic counselors meet with each patient to explain the results and what they mean for them and their family.

Maddie Kaltenberger, MGC, CGC Bryan Health since 2021

Master of Science in Genetic Counseling from the University of Nebraska Medical Center maddie.kaltenberger@bryanhealth.org

402-481-6305

Bronson Riley, MS, CGC, CCRP Cancer Partners of Nebraska since 2006

Master of Science Genetic Counseling from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio genetics@cancerpartners.com

402-420-7000

What is the difference between genetic testing and counseling?

Genetic testing is the examination of genetic material (or DNA) to determine if someone has an altered copy of a certain gene. This change in a gene (or a mutation) prevents the gene from working properly. If this happens in a cancer susceptibility gene, it could mean someone is at an increased risk to develop cancer in their lifetime.

Genetic counselors are medical professionals who guide patients through the genetic testing process. We analyze family history to determine what testing is appropriate, provide cancer risk assessment, interpret results and help patients understand the implications.

Who should get genetic testing?

The best way to know if genetic testing would be beneficial is by gathering and reviewing family history. A genetic counselor can analyze this information and determine what testing would be most appropriate.

Some clues that cancer may be inherited are if it occurs:

• At a young age (i.e., less than 50)

• In both of a paired organ (such as both breasts)

• In a pattern within a family

What if the patient already has cancer?

Can genetic testing help?

Genetic counseling and testing could provide more information about someone’s risk to develop a second primary cancer, influence options for cancer treatment and alter recommendations for cancer surveillance for the future. It also can be beneficial information for their family members to clarify their own risk of developing cancer in the future.

To learn more or make a referral, please call 402-481-7900.

Donor Corner

April Sampson Cancer Center is grateful for generous donors in our community, such as:

The University of Nebraska - Lincoln Interfraternity Council (IFC). The governing body for 25 fraternities at UNL is helping fund the café in the April Sampson Cancer Center The café will feature cancer fighting foods and drinks, grab-and-go items and cooking demonstrations.

This philanthropic group committed to a $150,000 donation toward this gathering space as one of the many ways they give back to our community.

Address Service Requested

Cancer News will keep you up-to-date on comprehensive cancer services available now and in the future. April Sampson Cancer Center will open late in 2023.

Shop Our Cancer Patient Amazon Wish List

Create care packages for cancer patients facing surgery, radiation, long appointments and infusions. Our team has hand selected “wish list” items to meet cancer patients’ unique needs. These items promote comfort and relaxation and ease anxiety.

Ship items to Bryan Volunteers to place in customized gift bags for cancer patients.

Lung Nodule Program

Early detection of lung cancer leads to significantly better survival rate, so Bryan has created a new multidisciplinary lung nodule program.

Our Lung Nodule Review Board is comprised of:

• Pulmonologist (Nebraska Pulmonary Specialties)

• Interventional radiologist (Advanced Radiology)

• Oncology nurse navigators

• Cancer program coordinator

The group meets weekly to review CT scans where lung nodules have been identified. If necessary, they make recommendations to the patient and their primary doctor for further screening and treatment.

To refer a patient for lung nodule review, call 402-481-7900.

Shop our wish list by scanning the QR code:

402-481-7900

We’re here for you and your patients

If you have a patient who is diagnosed with cancer, call us first. We will:

• Contact your patient within 24 hours (Monday-Friday)

• Connect them with an oncology nurse navigator

• Help them find the doctor to meet their needs

• Coordinate care to get them from diagnosis to treatment faster

• Explain treatment options and side effects

• Collaborate with you and other physicians involved in their care

• Walk with them every step of the way

NEW! Referral to Bryan Cancer Program now available in Epic. Thank you for entrusting us with your patients’ cancer care.