Abstract
Emerging genetic advances mandate that all health professionals have basic knowledge of genetics in order to provide adequate services to their clients. As part of the Human Genome Education Model (HuGEM) Project II, a national survey was carried out by the survey Research Center, U. MD., of the genetics education, perceived competencies, and views of ethical issues of nearly two thousand health professionals (audiologists, dietitians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists). Completed in September, 1998, the survey showed that most health professionals are providing some genetic services to their clients. Overall, 70% have discussed the genetic component of their clients' problems and 30% have provided counseling about genetic concerns with at least a few of their clients. Yet only 17% have high or moderately high confidence in their ability to discuss genetic basis of clients' genetic conditions and 14% are confident in providing guidance to clients with genetic conditions. Fifty-six percent take medical histories, however, only 23% feel confident in their ability to elicit genetic information as part of the medical history. While 67% of health professionals hold graduate degrees, fewer than 21 % have had one or more courses in genetics. Within the last 6 months, 83% have received genetics information from TV/Radio, 32% from conferences, and 28% from clients. Nearly two-thirds would like to have continuing education in genetics. The top priority topics were 1) Role of genetics in common disorders such as stroke, heart disease, and cancers, 2) Overview of human genetics, 3) Genetic information and racial/ethnic concerns, 4) Helping clients cope with a new genetic diagnosis, and 5) Identifying genetic resources. These data imply that most health professionals are already providing genetic services to at least some clients, few have high confidence in providing the services, and most have had little or no education in genetics. Most respondents want continuing education in genetics and identify priority topics for education. This information has significant implications for genetics educators.
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Lanham, E., Weiss, J., Kozma, C. et al. Genetics education of health professionals. Genet Med 1, 57 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1097/00125817-199901000-00065
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/00125817-199901000-00065