SOUTHBRIDGE, Mass. – February 12, 2015 – Harrington recently added a genetic counselor to its cancer center staff, further enhancing the advanced oncology services offered to the community.
Asma Rashid is a licensed and board-certified genetics counselor, who has specialized as a cancer genetic counselor for more than 10 years. Rashid attended Mount Holyoke College for her undergraduate degree and the University of Arizona for a master’s in genetics.
Genetic counseling provides information and support for individuals with an inherited or genetic risk for cancer. Rashid helps individuals understand their risk for hereditary cancer by reviewing family history, explaining risks for hereditary cancers, discussing benefits and limitations of genetic testing, and outlining medical management options with their physician.
“We want patients to have critical pieces of information necessary so they can make informed decisions about their health,” said Cindy Krasnecky, Director of The Cancer Center at Harrington. “Genetic counseling can be an important part of the treatment plan, and Asma brings a wealth of information to patients in the Southbridge area. We look forward to her helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic testing.”
Not all patients who schedule an appointment with Rashid have a cancer diagnosis. Many high-risk patients may be referred for counseling, but Krasnecky points out an additional benefit of the service is to be proactive about a patient’s risk.
Rashid is a member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. To contact her and inquire about an appointment, call 508-765-2259.
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