The global status of genetic counselors in 2023: What has changed in the past 5 years?

Abstract

Purpose: The profession of genetic counselors has existed for over 50 years. This article provides an update on the global state of the genetic counseling (GC) profession in 2022 and 2023.

Methods: We used a survey approach to collect data from individuals who were identified as being leaders in GC practice and/or education around the world.

Results: Based on responses provided between October 2023 and January 2024, we estimate that there are over 10,250 genetic counselors in over 45 countries around the world. These numbers have increased significantly in the past 5 years, when there were ∼7000 genetic counselors. Key factors identified as driving the increase in genetic counselors are the number of training programs that have developed (>130 globally, mostly at a master's degree level) and a growing number of national biobanks and/or population screening programs that require GC as part of the process. There is tremendous variability in how genetic counselors are regulated, with only a few countries holding national statutory regulation processes. There are many commonalities, but the GC profession appears nuanced to their specific country and its wider socio-political context and history.

Conclusion: We hope that genetic counselors internationally will come together to assist each other in all aspects: training, statutory regulation, developing the workforce, and establishing GC as an academic discipline. We envision that establishing an international organization for the profession of genetic counselors might maintain such international connections and provide relevant data in future years.

Keywords: Genetic counselor; International; Regulation; Training; Workforce.

Figure 1

Distribution of genetic counselors (GCs) over the world.