Morgan Luevano, a genetic counselor at Spencer Cancer Center, is helping patients through their cancer journey.
OPELIKA, Ala. — Using medical history, lab results and pedigree, genetic counselor Morgan Luevano at Spencer Cancer Center is helping patients identify inherent risks and navigate their cancer journey.
As a genetic counselor (a new position at Spencer Cancer Center), Luevano works with patients who are eligible for genetic testing, reviewing their medical history so they can choose the best course of action for their treatment.
“The purpose of genetic counseling is to document your personal and family cancer history, discuss cancer genetics and hereditary cancer syndromes, and educate you about what genetic testing means for you and your family, as well as the benefits, risks, and limitations of testing. ,” Luevano said. “My goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about genetic testing.”
While most cancers are not hereditary, patients who work with a genetic counselor can gain insight into the genetic risks associated with their condition so they can be factored into treatment decisions.
As an example Luevano gave, a patient who discovers through genetic testing that she has hereditary breast cancer might decide to have a bilateral mastectomy, while a woman who learns she has a non-hereditary breast cancer might choose a lumpectomy.
Spencer Cancer Center adds genetics program so patients don’t have to leave home to get genetic counseling. Spencer Cancer Center patients also have access to resources such as survivor and patient support groups, breast health navigation consultations, assistance from social workers, and oncology wellness programs to help patients stay active and live healthier lives.
“Adding genetic counseling services at Spencer Cancer Center aligns with East Alabama Health’s goal of providing comprehensive care to patients, which means patients can receive quality care without having to travel out of town,” Luevano said. “I am excited to be the local genetic counselor for Spencer Cancer Center patients.”
Luevano works directly with oncologists, nurse practitioners and support staff at Spencer Cancer Center to identify patients who are eligible for genetic testing and counseling.
“Our shared goal is to provide every patient with every possible support during their cancer treatment journey,” she said. “One of my goals is to increase the number of patients receiving genetic counseling and testing by appropriately identifying individuals who meet the criteria for genetic testing.”
For many patients, beating cancer can be difficult. For Luevano, the opportunity to guide and support patients through challenging times in their lives is what makes the job so rewarding.
“The most rewarding part of my job is my ability to guide patients to make the best decisions for them and their families,” Luevano said. “I love being a resource for patients to ask questions so they can feel comfortable getting tested and, if they decline testing, I will support and validate that decision.”
Born in West Columbia, South Carolina, Luevano discovered his love for genetics in high school. After earning a bachelor’s degree in genetics from Clemson University, she discovered her interest in cancer genetics while completing her master’s degree at BayPas University in Longmeadow, Massachusetts.
“I had a great AP Biology teacher (in high school) who talked to us about genetic counseling, specifically the prenatal specialty, and I thought I would pursue that career,” she said. “I found my genetic counseling niche during my cancer rotation at the Institute.
“I enjoy the patient population I am able to serve, cancer genetics is a growing field and genetic testing can positively impact patients’ cancer care.”
Patients seeking contact with Luevano regarding genetic counseling and testing are encouraged to speak with their oncologist.
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About East Alabama Health Center
East Alabama Health includes East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, EAMC-Lanier in the Valley, Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, Auburn Medical Center and many other important medical clinics and clinics , these clinics and clinics help provide continuity of care to patients throughout their 11 years. – County area. EAMC is a 314-bed regional referral hospital, while EAMC-Lanier provides inpatient services as well as a nursing home, acute rehabilitation center and ambulatory surgery center. With approximately 3,500 employees, East Alabama Health is the region’s second-largest employer, behind Auburn University. For more information, visit www.eastalabamahealth.org.
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