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Personalized guidance. Proactive care. Real support.

At HealthyGene, we believe knowledge isn’t just power – it’s how you take charge of your health and future. We help you understand your cancer risk – and take confident, informed steps to protect your health.

HealthyGene is a digital genetic counseling company focused on education, proactive health, and improving care for people with hereditary cancer risk. Whether you're exploring genetic testing for the first time or are a previvor who already knows your inherited risks, we're here to guide you – every step of the way.

Our mission is simple: to make expert, compassionate genetic counseling and testing more accessible, more personal, and more useful for the people who need it most.

Meet the Founder

Hi, I’m Jen Thompson, MS, CGC – board-certified genetic counselor and founder of HealthyGene.

I started HealthyGene because I kept seeing the same problem: people with a family history of cancer falling through the cracks.

In hospitals and clinics, I met so many individuals who weren’t referred for genetic counseling – or whose concerns were dismissed altogether. Others had already done genetic testing but still had lingering questions about their results or what to do next.

I wanted to change that.

I built HealthyGene to offer the kind of support I believe every patient should have: expert guidance that’s compassionate, personalized, and clear. Because when it comes to something as important as cancer risk, you deserve to feel informed and empowered.

My mission is simple: to help you understand your risk – and take proactive, potentially life-saving steps to protect your health.

Jennifer headshot.jpg

I’m a board-certified genetic counselor with over a decade of experience in cancer genetics, clinical research, and genetic test interpretation. I earned my undergraduate degree in genetics from UC Irvine and completed my graduate training in genetic counseling at Northwestern University.

Before founding HealthyGene, I worked in academic hospitals and research institutions, including Rush University Medical Center and NorthShore University HealthSystem. I’ve spent my career advocating for patients, working to improve access to genetic services, and helping people make informed choices about their health.

I also created the Know Your Risk Hereditary Cancer Quiz, a fast, accessible tool designed to help more people understand whether genetic counseling might be right for them.

Cancer has touched my life in a personal way – my dad died of cancer at 60, when I was just 19. That loss shaped my belief in the importance of personalized, proactive care. It’s why I do this work. I know what’s at stake, and I want to help others take action early – before cancer has a chance to take hold.

I’m an active member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors and the Illinois Society of Genetic Professionals, and I live in Chicago with my partner and our dog, Murphy.

The HealthyGene Difference

Built for people like you. Not the system.

💬 Personalized guidance, not generic advice

We take the time to listen – to your story, your family history, and your goals. Our genetic counselors carefully select the right tests for you and translate the results into clear, actionable steps. You’ll always walk away knowing what your options are and what to do next.

More time to get it right

Our 30- to 60-minute appointments give you the space to ask questions, feel heard, and make thoughtful decisions. You deserve more than a rushed appointment.

⚖️ Independent, expert advice

We’re not tied to any testing lab. That means your counselor recommends what’s best for you – not what serves a company’s bottom line. We also ensure your test is medical-grade and from a trusted lab – no guesswork, no surprises.

🧬 Medical-grade results you can trust

Unlike many at-home DNA kits, the tests we recommend meet the highest standards for clinical care. Your results can be used by you and your doctors to tailor your screenings, treatments, and preventive care.

🗺️ Clarity & support for what comes next

Your genetic results are just one piece of the puzzle. We help you make sense of them in the context of your personal and family history – and provide a clear, personalized plan you can use with your healthcare team to take action.

HealthyGene is currently serving the following states

Arizona

California

Colorado

Florida

Hawaii

Illinois

Kansas

Maine

Michigan

Missouri

Nevada

New York

North Carolina

Oregon

Texas

Vermont

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Wyoming

HealthyGene not in your state yet? Click here to be notified when we are.

Ready to take the next step?

Not sure if genetic counseling or testing is right for you?
 

Start with a Personal Risk Assessment – a 30 minute appointment that can help you better understand your cancer risk and if genetic testing is recommended.

👉 Schedule Your Risk Assessment Now

Already know you’re at increased risk – or ready to move forward?

Our Proactive Health Package is designed for those who are ready to move forward with genetic testing and want expert, personalized support.

Still have questions?
Visit our FAQ page to learn more about what we offer, how it works, and what to expect.

We’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

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