The Developmental and Genetic Center has provided genetic services in East Tennessee since 1966. During these years the field of medical genetics has expanded significantly to become a medical specialty recognized by the AMA. During this time our Center has developed a comprehensive genetic program that offers the latest advances in clinical genetics and in specialized genetic laboratory analyses.

Providing genetic services in the modern medicine era involves the interaction of the primary care physician, genetic specialists and specialists from other fields. Each component of this team plays a role in identifying patients for whom genetic services may be of benefit in the diagnosis and treatment of complicated health problems. Referrals for genetic services include a wide range of disorders of all ages from prenatal, neonatal or pediatric manifestations to common conditions of adults such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and late onset neurogenetic disorders.

• The clinical genetic services we provide include:
  • clinical genetic consultations,
  • genetic counseling for reproductive issues,
  • risk counseling for cancer,
  • a neurogenetic clinic,
  • newborn screening follow-up and treatment of PKU and galactosemia,
  • outreach genetic clinics, and
  • support groups.
• Our staff has established close relationships with physicians, health care providers, community agencies, mental retardation programs, school systems, and social service agencies in the East Tennessee Region. We are the only Genetic Center in the 16 counties of the Middle East Tennessee Region and have a strong outreach component, which includes Genetic Clinics located in 10 of these counties.
• As the Metabolic Center for the 34 counties of East Tennessee we are responsible for the follow up and treatment of infants and children with abnormal newborn screening results for PKU and galactosemia. In addition, we are the Sickle Cell Center for Middle and Upper East Tennessee offering counseling, case management and follow-up services.
• The specialized genetic laboratory services performed at our center include:
  • chromosome analyses,
  • molecular diagnostic tests,
  • metabolic studies, and
  • maternal serum screening.
• Many genetic disorders cause developmental and/or behavior problems that require developmental services of a multidisciplinary team. These services are also available to children and adults with developmental disorders not caused by genetic factors. Our center offers a unique approach because both the genetic staff and the developmental team are part of the same program at the same location. These services include medical evaluations, psychological testing and counseling, nutritional assessments and counseling, speech/language and hearing evaluations, home-based early intervention and speech therapy, social services and independent support coordination.
• The members of our staff have the specialized training and years of experience necessary to provide comprehensive diagnostic services combined with an appreciation of the complexities of the emotional, physical and social needs of the families and individuals we serve.

For more information about our services call 305-9031, or to schedule an appointment, call 305-9030.