Educating & Empowering
Madison Thomason chose the perfect career path to unite her intellectual and relational passions. “The genetics chapter in high school biology ignited my interest in this field,” she shares. “I knew I wanted to work directly with patients, and genetic counseling turned out to be the perfect combination of science and people.” She brings 14 years of experience to her current role, where she counsels individuals and families through complicated conversations. “When a patient enters my office, noticeably fearful, anxious, angry, or hopeless, and then walks out of my office with an exhale of peace, hope, comprehension, and motivation, it is one of the most rewarding things in the world,” she says.
I love being able to come alongside families to support them throughout the genetic testing process. Genetics can be a complex subject, and if I can help to make it more understandable and less intimidating, that’s a win!”
My Credentials
Master of Science in Genetic Counseling:
University of South Carolina School of Medicine – Columbia, SC
Certifications:
Board-Certified, American Board of Genetic Counseling
Recognitions:
Catherine Spalding Award
Young Outstanding Genetic Counselor Award
Specialties:
Cancer Genetics
1. What does your day-to-day look like?
As a cancer genetic counselor, I meet with patients to determine if their personal history and/or family history of cancer might be due to an underlying inherited genetic cause. I help them understand what their genetic test results mean, educating them about their cancer risks, options for medical care, and potential risks to their family members. Providing emotional support along the way is an important aspect of the care I give.
2. What is your best advice for patients?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be inquisitive. Ask your relatives about your family history. Ask your healthcare providers about your diagnosis, test results, and treatment options. Ask about anything you don’t understand. Knowledge leads to wisdom and good judgment. We are all lifelong learners.
3. What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your patients?
Take a genuine interest in getting to know them as a whole person. Find out their grandkids’ names or what new trick their dog is doing. Learn what makes their face light up and what is their greatest worry. Then build off of those things as I educate and empower them to navigate their medical journey well.
4. What’s the key to making a great first impression?
Acknowledge people by name with a sincere smile and undivided attention. Make them feel like they matter more than anything else in the world at that moment.
5. What would you consider to be your main strengths?
From the “science” perspective, attention to detail comes naturally to me and is of great importance when interpreting complex genetic test results. From the “people” perspective, I deeply care for my patients and their families and consider it an honor to come alongside them in their cancer journeys.
- 423.266.3636
- 102 Central Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37403
- erlanger.org/womens
