Telegenetic Appointments

TeleGenetics is a Telehealth service at Saint Peter’s specifically designed to provide genetic counseling, genetic-metabolic dietician counseling for inborn errors of metabolism, and, when appropriate, genetic evaluation and consultation. 

Providers at Saint Peter’s have the ability to provide remote patient consultations or counseling using secure telecommunication technology that is HIPAA/Hi-Tech compliant and convenient. The technology allows providers to meet face-to-face with patients in a virtual appointment to discuss healthcare concerns or monitor a patient’s needs while reducing travel time and expenses. Patients can connect with our providers from any device that is equipped with Wi-Fi, a web-camera, mic and speaker, through email or text. Although cell phones and tablets are acceptable devices, it is highly recommended to use a laptop or desktop for better audio/visual purposes.

The TeleGenetic Appointment
TeleGenetics may not be an appropriate solution for all referral indications, which is why patients wishing to be scheduled for a TeleGenetic Appointment are pre-screened and triaged to ensure this service is the right option for them.  To determine whether a patient meets criteria for TeleGenetic services, please contact our intake coordinator at 732.339.7481.

Prior to a scheduled telemedicine appointment:

1. Pre-Registration forms must be completed in advance for confirmation of the patient’s most up-to-date demographics and insurance information.
2. Medical Record Release forms must be completed in advance for continuity of care and HIPPA.
3. Prepare for the appointment by considering where the patient will physically be located when connecting with our providers.  Due to the complex and in-depth discussions, we suggest that the user situate themselves in a quiet area with strong wi-fi to avoid distractions or disconnection.
4. Prepare for possible disconnection by having another phone line readily available for the provider to call.

What to expect during our telemedicine appointment?

1. The patient or legal guardian will receive a link via email or text message.  Preferred method of contact will have been discussed during scheduling.
2. This link must be opened through an updated version of Chrome, Firefox or Safari, depending which browser and device is being used.
3. Once on the platform and prior to selecting “Start Session,” it is advised that the patient test their connectivity.
4. The provider will be able to add additional guests to the appointment if necessary.  The patient/user must communicate with the provider if they feel another guest of their choice should be added.  A link can be shared via text or email.
5. Translation services can be made available through the platform.
6. Power Point presentations, or results, and other documents can be shared through the platform and saved on the patient’s side if necessary.

For more information about the Department of Medical Genetics and Genomic Medicine, please click here.