Free Testing Options in BC

In the province of British Columbia, genetic testing is offered through the provincially-funded Hereditary Cancer Program.

For people who do not qualify for the program or who for other reasons are interested in seeking out alternative testing options, there are also a wide number of commercial genetic testing programs, many of which are available online.

For more information about private testing options and how they compare, please click here.

Public (Provincially-Funded) Testing in BC

Benefits and drawbacks of the provincially-funded testing program

  • Considered the gold standard for testing, among all currently available testing options

  • Testing includes sequencing of the full genome for the family ‘index case’ (an individual identified in the family as being the most likely to carry the gene, for instance, because they have already developed a suspicious cancer)

  • Other family members will only be tested for gene mutations identified during the sequencing of the family index case (a speedier process)

  • Includes genetic counseling as part of the testing process, as well as a direct link to the province’s High-Risk Screening Clinic for further medical support

  • All files will meet provincial standards and will be guided through the necessary official channels for medical care

  • Not all individuals who are interested in receiving testing will qualify under current provincial guidelines

  • Wait times to meet with your genetic counselor to begin the screening process and to receive your results can be lengthy, however, this is improving as the program expands and restructures its process.

Hereditary Cancer Program (BC Cancer)

Website: BC Cancer - Hereditary Program
Vancouver: 604-877-6000 local 672198
Abbotsford: 604-851-4710 local 645236
Updated 14 Jan 2022

Cost of Test: Free for individuals who qualify

Genes Screened For: Includes BRCA1 and BRCA2, as well as other genes recommended for your individual situation

Includes Pre-Test Genetic Counseling: Yes

Includes Post-Test Support: Test results will be delivered over the phone by your assigned Genetic Counselor. If your test is positive, the Genetic Counselor will outline your options and forward on your file to the Hereditary Cancer Program’s High-Risk Screening Clinic at BC Cancer.

Referral Routes 

Referrals are generally made through primary care providers, but occasionally patients are accepted by self-referral. Primary care providers can now order genetic testing directly through a system called Pathways. There is also a new pilot genetic testing program available for people with Jewish ancestry. To learn more about this program, click here.

Access Process

  1. Ask your family physician to make a referral to the Hereditary Cancer Program, to order genetic testing directly or contact the Hereditary Cancer Program directly to self-refer. Include any information you have about family history of cancer and/or hereditary cancer genetic testing done for relatives

  2. Next steps may include:

    • Booking a genetic counselling appointment for you

    • Booking a telephone appointment with you to get some more information

    • Sending you a family history form to complete

    • Sending you a letter that confirms you are on a waiting list to book a genetic counselling appointment

    • Sending a letter to inform you and your doctor that no appointment is needed

  3. If you have a genetic counselling appointment and genetic testing via the Hereditary Cancer Program, another appointment will be booked to discuss your genetic test results.

  4. Referral to the Hereditary Cancer Program High-Risk Screening Clinic is offered to women who receive positive genetic test results

  5. A related consultation letter will be sent to your (referring) physician, and you will receive a copy of that letter.

  6. Your genetic counsellor will provide suggestions about sharing information with your family members.

Talking to Your Primary Care Provider

Talking to your family doctor or primary care provider about genetic testing and BRCA risk can sometimes feel like a daunting task. You may know more about your risk as a person with Ashkenazi Jewish heritage than your family doctor or primary care provider. In collaboration with BC Cancer’s Hereditary Cancer Program, we have developed a letter for you to take with you when you speak with your family doctor about being tested for BRCA. Please download and take this letter with you to your appointment with your doctor to discuss referral and testing options.

Primary Care Provider Letter