The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), recommends that individuals and couples who are planning on having a child are offered reproductive carrier screening prior to pregnancy. Genetic carrier screening identifies reproductive couples' risk of having a child with a genetically inherited condition. There are numerous tests available, varying in comprehensiveness and cost. 

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The basic Prepair 3 test assesses the risk of passing on three common genetic conditions; Cystic Fibrosis, Spinal Muscular Atrophy and Fragile X. Initially only the female reproductive partner is required to provide a blood or saliva sample, and those results will determine if the male reproductive partner is required to test. This test is now bulk billed and therefore there is no out of pocket cost for medicare card holders.

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The more comprehensive tests analyse a panel of 500+ and 1000+ conditions respectively. Please click here  to find out more information about the tests - Prepair 3 , Prepair 500+ and Prepair 1000+ 

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Genetic carrier screening is voluntary and you are not obligated to test. It is our duty of care to inform you about its availability. 

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You will be provided with a request form for the Prepair 3 genetic carrier test however if you wish to undertake Prepair 500+ or Prepair 1000+, please contact us at Specialists on Honeysuckle and we will email you the appropriate request form. 

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Not sure which test to take? Victorian Clinical Genetics Services (VCGS) offers free advice on genetic carrier screening - they can be contacted on 03 9936 6402 or screening@vcgs.org.au

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*Disclaimer: VCGS are a reputable not-for-profit organisation affiliated with the Royal Children Hospital Melbourne, however there are other organisations that can offer the same tests and we do not have any personal interest in any particular pathology company.

** The results of this test will not affect access to health insurance. The ability to obtain life insurance may be affected if an individual is found to have a genetic condition. 

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