Genetic counselors on the frontline of precision health.

TitleGenetic counselors on the frontline of precision health.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2018
AuthorsBamshad, MJ, Magoulas, PL, Dent, KM
JournalAm J Med Genet C Semin Med Genet
Volume178
Issue1
Pagination5-9
Date Published2018 Mar
ISSN1552-4876
Abstract

By enabling precise genetic diagnosis and treatment there is great potential for inexpensive, accurate, and widely accessible genomic information to transform health care and improve the general well-being of virtually every person. To maximize this potential, approaches to genetic counseling and the role of genetic counselors will need to adapt to fit changing clinical and commercial needs worldwide. This will require overcoming multiple challenges including an inadequate workforce; development and implementation of alternate models of service delivery; integration of new technologies to improve, extend, and expand services; and support for equitable education and counseling among all populations. Genetic counselors are aptly poised to take on these challenges. The result will be better informed patients and families more capable of utilizing genetic information appropriately, making autonomous decisions about their care, and modifying their approach to disease risk to actively contribute to their health. The contributors to this issue of Seminars discuss how key areas of genetic counseling need to evolve and how genetic counselors can play a role in shaping the future of precision health.

DOI10.1002/ajmg.c.31610
Alternate JournalAm J Med Genet C Semin Med Genet
PubMed ID29582554
PubMed Central IDPMC5910203
Grant ListU54 HG006493 / HG / NHGRI NIH HHS / United States
UM1 HG006493 / HG / NHGRI NIH HHS / United States