Although this has resulted in a near eradication of the disease from the Jewish population, the disease-causing genetic alterations still are present, and screening still is necessary in every generation.
[2] In addition, studies suggest that consumers desire more reproductive genetic testing, particularly for diseases that will result in death by the age of 5.
Since health insurance policies do not universally cover the complete cost of this genetic testing, many screening programs rely on philanthropic dollars to ensure that no one is turned away due to financial barriers.
Screening appointments at Montefiore, which include private genetic counseling sessions, are open to the community, and subsidies are provided to those who are uninsured or under-insured.
The program staff consists of board-certified obstetricians and gynecologists, geneticists and genetic counselors who can provide guidance and answer questions about the relationship between once's Ashkenazi Jewish heritage and a host of medical conditions.