Addressing Cross-Specialty Clinical Genetics Education Needs
- PMID: 39591498
- PMCID: PMC12376818
- DOI: 10.1097/CEH.0000000000000584
Addressing Cross-Specialty Clinical Genetics Education Needs
Abstract
Introduction: Advances in genomics are transforming clinical practice, but there are too few genetics professionals to meet increasing demand. Moreover, many nongeneticist clinicians feel unprepared to incorporate genetics into practice. This study assessed clinicians' unmet genomics educational needs at a single academic institution.
Methods: Qualitative interviews with Department and Division leaders informed a survey distributed to all clinicians at the institution. Survey questions focused on current practices, confidence, and desired educational resources around genetics and genomics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher exact tests. Results were shared with an expert panel of Genetics-Genomics Champions to help meet educational needs across specialties.
Results: Of the 215 survey respondents, 72% were faculty, 24% were trainees, and 4% were clinical staff, representing 18 departments. Less than half felt confident using genetics in the clinic. About 81% desired more training, which did not differ by role ( P = .27) or department ( P = .98). The Genetics-Genomics Champions proposed delivering just-in-time content via e-consults, online materials, and departmental meetings.
Discussion: This study highlights clinicians' need and desire for more genetics training. It also underscores the importance of consulting genetics-savvy clinicians to identify challenges and solutions for addressing cross-specialty genetics education needs.
Keywords: clinical genetics; clinician education; needs assessment.
Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, the Association for Hospital Medical Education, and the Society for Academic Continuing Medical Education.
Conflict of interest statement
Disclosures: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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