Non-geneticist champions are essential to the mainstreaming of genomic medicine
Michael P. Mackley, Emma Weisz, Robin Z. Hayeems, Clara Gaff, Belinda McClaren
Abstract
Demand for genomic testing is increasing across medicine as it paves the way for earlier diagnoses and targeted management of patients with rare diseases. The diagnostic utility of genomic testing has been clearly established, with evidence demonstrating value of its earlier positioning in the genetic care pathway [ 1 , 2 ]. However, clinical genetics services are experiencing unsustainable pressures and are challenged to meet this growing need [ 3 , 4 ]. In response, the roles of genetics professionals are shifting, with more working in spaces outside of the genetics service [ 5 , 6 , 7 ]. Recent studies have also illustrated an additional solution: greater involvement of non-geneticist clinicians in the delivery of genomic medicine [ 8 , 9 ]. Concurrently, institutions and governments are becoming increasingly aware of the potential benefits of such “mainstreaming”—where non-geneticist clinicians are responsible for components of the genetic care pathway—and are supporting expanded and earlier access to these important tests [ 10 ]. To increase access, however, intentional and purpose-built strategies are needed to increase capacity and facilitate adoption into the practice of non-geneticist clinicians.