Comparing telegenetics and in-person genetic counselling

Telegenetics or In-Person Genetic Counselling: A Comparison of Clinical Outcomes and Cost

National Cancer Centre, Singapore · NCT04738708

This study is testing whether online genetic counseling is just as good and cost-effective as in-person counseling for patients considering genetic tests for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and Lynch syndrome.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages21 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNational Cancer Centre, Singapore (other)
Locations1 site (Singapore)
Trial IDNCT04738708 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares the clinical outcomes and costs associated with telegenetics versus in-person genetic counselling for patients considering germline testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome. It aims to evaluate patient-reported outcomes, including informed choice and psychosocial impacts, to determine if telegenetics is a feasible and effective alternative to traditional counselling methods. The study will recruit 150 patients at the National Cancer Centre Singapore, where participants will complete questionnaires assessing their experiences and outcomes after their consultations.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older who are referred for pre-test genetic counselling for HBOC or Lynch syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients who require urgent genetic results or have cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more accessible and cost-effective model for genetic counselling services.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results for telegenetics, indicating it may be a viable alternative to in-person counselling.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 21 years old.
* Patients referred to CGS at NCCS for HBOC or Lynch syndrome pre-test genetic counselling.
* Able to read and understand the English Language.
* Able to consent and agree to be randomized to either telegenetics or in-person genetic counselling.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Under the age of 21 years old.
* Patients who require genetic results urgently.
* Cognitive difficulty/ impairment or current psychiatric or physical illness (visual/ hearing/ neurological) which impairs sound judgement and accurate reporting of medical history over video consultation.

Where this trial is running

Singapore

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Genetic Counselling

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.