1
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Paudel N, Daly A, Moran EM, Stratieva P. The Landscape of Genomic Services for Inherited Retinal Degenerations (IRDs) Across Europe. Clin Ophthalmol 2024; 18:2217-2224. [PMID: 39131545 PMCID: PMC11317041 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s465930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To map the existing genomic services available for patients with IRDs across Europe. Methods A survey was conducted to 24 ophthalmic and/or genetic specialists across 19 European countries. The survey was conducted in an interview style via zoom for participants from 17 out of 19 countries. Interviewees were clinical/medical/ophthalmic geneticists, ophthalmologists/retina specialists and internal medicine specialists. The survey focused on referral pathways, genetic counseling, insurance coverage, awareness of genetic testing and counseling for IRDs among practitioners and patients, and preferred testing methodologies. Results Genomic services (testing and counselling) for IRDs vary among countries from an awareness, availability and insurance coverage perspective. Affordability could be a barrier for patients in countries without any payment scheme (eg, Poland) and in countries where only a targeted population is covered (eg, Bulgaria). Genetic counseling via qualified genetic counsellors did not exist in many countries. The level of awareness regarding the benefits of genetic testing in IRDs among healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients was perceived as low in some countries. Panel-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) was the first test of choice for genetic testing in 68% of the studied countries. Conclusion There is some disparity in the approach to genetic testing for IRDs across Europe. Greater awareness of genetic testing services is required among the eye care professional community. A revised approach to the provision of genetic testing services such as centralized free genetic testing with associated interpretation and genetic counselling may help in ensuring equitable access and reimbursement, which will empower patients through improved access to clinical trials, expedite innovation, improve access to therapy and the delivery of care.
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2
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Kim S, Pistawka C, Langlois S, Osiovich H, Virani A, Kitchin V, Elliott AM. Genetic counselling considerations with genetic/genomic testing in Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units: A scoping review. Clin Genet 2024; 105:13-33. [PMID: 37927209 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and genomic technologies can effectively diagnose numerous genetic disorders. Patients benefit when genetic counselling accompanies genetic testing and international guidelines recommend pre- and post-test genetic counselling with genome-wide sequencing. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the unique genetic counselling considerations with different types of genetic testing in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). This scoping review was conducted to identify the gaps in care with respect to genetic counselling for infants/pediatric patients undergoing genetic and genomic testing in NICUs and PICUs and understand areas in need of improvement in order to optimize clinical care for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Five databases (MEDLINE [Ovid], Embase [Ovid], PsycINFO [Ebsco], CENTRAL [Ovid], and CINHAL [Ebsco]) and grey literature were searched. A total of 170 studies were included and used for data extraction and analysis. This scoping review includes descriptive analysis, followed by a narrative account of the extracted data. Results were divided into three groups: pre-test, post-test, and comprehensive (both pre- and post-test) genetic counselling considerations based on indication for testing. More studies were conducted in the NICU than the PICU. Comprehensive genetic counselling was discussed in only 31% of all the included studies demonstrating the need for both pre-test and post-test genetic counselling for different clinical indications in addition to the need to account for different cultural aspects based on ethnicity and geographic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunu Kim
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Carly Pistawka
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sylvie Langlois
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Horacio Osiovich
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alice Virani
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Ethics Service, Provincial Health Services Authority, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Vanessa Kitchin
- Woodward Library, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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3
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Strnadová I, Loblinzk J, Scully JL, Danker J, Tso M, Jackaman KM, Dunn M, Willow SA, Sarfaraz S, Fitzgerald V, Boyle J, Palmer EE. "I am not a number!" Opinions and preferences of people with intellectual disability about genetic healthcare. Eur J Hum Genet 2023; 31:1057-1065. [PMID: 36670247 PMCID: PMC10474088 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01282-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
There is limited research exploring the knowledge and experiences of genetic healthcare from the perspective of people with intellectual disability. This study, conducted in New South Wales (Australia), addresses this gap. Eighteen adults with intellectual disability and eight support people were interviewed in this inclusive research study. The transcribed interviews were analysed using inductive content analysis. The findings were discussed in a focus group with ten adults with intellectual disability and in three multi-stakeholder advisory workshops, contributing to the validity and trustworthiness of the findings. Five main themes emerged: (i) access to genetic healthcare services is inequitable, with several barriers to the informed consent process; (ii) the experiences and opinions of people with intellectual disability are variable, including frustration, exclusion and fear; (iii) genetic counselling and diagnoses can be profoundly impactful, but translating a genetic diagnosis into tailored healthcare, appropriate support, peer connections and reproductive planning faces barriers; (iv) people with intellectual disability have a high incidence of exposure to trauma and some reported that their genetic healthcare experiences were associated with further trauma; (v) recommendations for a more respectful and inclusive model of genetic healthcare. Co-designed point-of-care educational and consent resources, accompanied by tailored professional education for healthcare providers, are required to improve the equity and appropriateness of genetic healthcare for people with intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Strnadová
- School of Education, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Disability Innovation Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Self-Advocacy Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Gonski Institute for Education, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Julie Loblinzk
- School of Education, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Self-Advocacy Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Joanne Danker
- School of Education, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Tso
- School of Education, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Manjekah Dunn
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Jackie Boyle
- NSW Genetics of Learning Disability Service, NSW Health, Waratah, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Emma Palmer
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, NSW Health, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.
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4
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Middleton A, Taverner N, Moreton N, Rizzo R, Houghton C, Watt C, Horton E, Levene S, Leonard P, Melville A, Ellis S, Tripathi V, Patch C, Jenkins E. The genetic counsellor role in the United Kingdom : Position on behalf of the Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors (AGNC), Endorsed by the Genetic Counsellor Registration Board (GCRB) and Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS). Eur J Hum Genet 2023; 31:13-15. [PMID: 36316491 PMCID: PMC9822947 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01212-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Middleton
- grid.511010.4Engagement and Society, Wellcome Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK ,grid.5335.00000000121885934Kavli Centre for Ethics, Science, and the Public, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicola Taverner
- grid.5600.30000 0001 0807 5670School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK ,All Wales Genetic Medicine Service, Cardiff, UK
| | - Natalie Moreton
- grid.498924.a0000 0004 0430 9101Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- grid.430506.40000 0004 0465 4079University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Catherine Houghton
- grid.419317.90000 0004 0421 1251Liverpool Centre for Genomic Medicine, Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Catherine Watt
- Department of Clinical Genetics, West of Scotland Genetic Services, Glasgow, UK
| | - Esther Horton
- grid.240404.60000 0001 0440 1889Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sara Levene
- The Centre for Reproductive & Genetic Health, London, UK
| | - Phil Leonard
- grid.498025.20000 0004 0376 6175Birmingham Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Somya Ellis
- grid.498924.a0000 0004 0430 9101Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Vishakha Tripathi
- grid.239826.40000 0004 0391 895XGuy’s and St Thomas’ Clinical Genetics Service, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Christine Patch
- grid.511010.4Engagement and Society, Wellcome Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Elaine Jenkins
- Head of Standards, Academy for Healthcare Science, London, UK
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5
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Elliott AM, Guimond C. Genetic counseling considerations in cerebral palsy. Mol Genet Metab 2022; 137:428-435. [PMID: 34389249 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide sequencing (exome and whole genome) has transformed our ability to diagnose patients with suspected genetic disorders. Cerebral palsy (CP), although historically thought to be due to birth injury (perinatal hypoxia), represents a clinical spectrum of disorders, many of which have been attributed to a genetic cause. GWS has elucidated the underlying single gene cause for many patients with CP and has important implications for the customization of treatment, management, and genetic counseling. International guidelines recommend genetic counseling for all families considering genome-wide sequencing. Genetic counselors educate and support families and help them to make testing decisions based on their values. They can help families adapt to, and understand the implications of a genomic diagnosis. Here, we review advances in sequencing for CP, clinical features suggestive of a genetic etiology of CP, practice guidelines for GWS, and a practical approach to the genetic counseling of these families. This includes: the content to be addressed in pre-test and post-test genetic counseling sessions, the benefits of a establishing a genetic cause and importantly, the need for ongoing support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Colleen Guimond
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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6
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Koplin JJ, Gyngell C, Savulescu J, Vears DF. Moving from 'fully' to 'appropriately' informed consent in genomics: The PROMICE framework. BIOETHICS 2022; 36:655-665. [PMID: 35390218 PMCID: PMC9321597 DOI: 10.1111/bioe.13027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Genomic sequencing technologies (GS) pose novel challenges not seen in older genetic technologies, making traditional standards for fully informed consent difficult or impossible to meet. This is due to factors including the complexity of the test and the broad range of results it may identify. Meaningful informed consent is even more challenging to secure in contexts involving significant time constraints and emotional distress, such as when rapid genomic testing (RGS) is performed in neonatal intensive care units. In this article, we propose that informed consent matters not for its own sake, but because obtaining it furthers a range of morally important goals, such as promoting autonomy, well-being, and trust in medicine. These goals form the basis of a new framework [PROmoting Morally Important Consent Ends (PROMICE)] for assessing the ethical appropriateness of various informed consent models. We illustrate this framework with two examples: (a) a tiered and layered consent model for obtaining consent for GS, and (b) consent for RGS in critically ill newborns. We conclude that appropriately-rather than fully-informed consent provides the correct standard for genomic medicine and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian J. Koplin
- Biomedical Ethics Research GroupMurdoch Children's Research InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Melbourne Law SchoolUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Christopher Gyngell
- Melbourne Law SchoolUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of PaediatricsUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Julian Savulescu
- Biomedical Ethics Research GroupMurdoch Children's Research InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Melbourne Law SchoolUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical EthicsOxford UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Danya F. Vears
- Melbourne Law SchoolUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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7
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Van Der Merwe N, Ramesar R, De Vries J. Whole Exome Sequencing in South Africa: Stakeholder Views on Return of Individual Research Results and Incidental Findings. Front Genet 2022; 13:864822. [PMID: 35754817 PMCID: PMC9216214 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.864822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of whole exome sequencing (WES) in medical research is increasing in South Africa (SA), raising important questions about whether and which individual genetic research results, particularly incidental findings, should be returned to patients. Whilst some commentaries and opinions related to the topic have been published in SA, there is no qualitative data on the views of professional stakeholders on this topic. Seventeen participants including clinicians, genomics researchers, and genetic counsellors (GCs) were recruited from the Western Cape in SA. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the transcripts analysed using the framework approach for data analysis. Current roadblocks for the clinical adoption of WES in SA include a lack of standardised guidelines; complexities relating to variant interpretation due to lack of functional studies and underrepresentation of people of African ancestry in the reference genome, population and variant databases; lack of resources and skilled personnel for variant confirmation and follow-up. Suggestions to overcome these barriers include obtaining funding and buy-in from the private and public sectors and medical insurance companies; the generation of a locally relevant reference genome; training of health professionals in the field of genomics and bioinformatics; and multidisciplinary collaboration. Participants emphasised the importance of upscaling the accessibility to and training of GCs, as well as upskilling of clinicians and genetic nurses for return of genetic data in collaboration with GCs and medical geneticists. Future research could focus on exploring the development of stakeholder partnerships for increased access to trained specialists as well as community engagement and education, alongside the development of guidelines for result disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Van Der Merwe
- UCT/MRC Genomic and Precision Medicine Research Unit, Division of Human Genetics, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Raj Ramesar
- UCT/MRC Genomic and Precision Medicine Research Unit, Division of Human Genetics, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jantina De Vries
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
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8
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Kohler JN, Glanton E, Boyd BM, Sillari CH, Marwaha S, Wheeler MT. Genetic counselor roles in the undiagnosed diseases network research study: Clinical care, collaboration, and curation. J Genet Couns 2022; 31:326-337. [PMID: 34374469 PMCID: PMC11305122 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Genetic counselors (GCs) are increasingly filling important positions on research study teams, but there is limited literature describing the roles of GCs in these settings. GCs on the Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) study team serve in a variety of roles across the research network and provide an opportunity to better understand genetic counselor roles in research. To quantitatively characterize the tasks regularly performed and professional fulfillment derived from these tasks, two surveys were administered to UDN GCs in a stepwise fashion. Responses from the first, free-response survey elicited the scope of tasks which informed development of a second structured, multiple-select survey. In survey 2, respondents were asked to select which roles they performed. Across 19 respondents, roles in survey 2 received a total of 947 selections averaging approximately 10 selections per role. When asked to indicate what roles they performed, respondent selected a mean of 50 roles (range 22-70). Survey 2 data were analyzed via thematic coding of responses and hierarchical cluster analysis to identify patterns in responses. From the thematic analysis, 20 non-overlapping codes emerged in seven categories: clinical interaction and care, communication, curation, leadership, participant management, research, and team management. Three themes emerged from the categories that represented the roles of GCs in the UDN: clinical care, collaboration, and curation. Cluster analyses showed that responses were more similar among individuals at the same institution than between institutions. This study highlights the ways GCs apply their unique skill set in the context of a clinical translational research network. Additionally, findings from this study reinforce the wide applicability of core skills that are part of genetic counseling training. Clinical literacy, genomics expertise and analysis, interpersonal, psychosocial and counseling skills, education, professional practice skills, and an understanding of research processes make genetic counselors well suited for such roles and poised to positively impact research experiences and outcomes for participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennefer N Kohler
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Emily Glanton
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Color Genomics, Burlingame, CA, USA
| | - Brenna M Boyd
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Catherine H Sillari
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Office of the Clinical Director, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shruti Marwaha
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Matthew T Wheeler
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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9
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Enns EA, Wainstein T, Dragojlovic N, Kopac N, Lynd LD, Elliott AM. Far and wide: Exploring provider utilization of remote service provision for genome-wide sequencing in Canada. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2021; 9:e1784. [PMID: 34532994 PMCID: PMC8580085 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Canada, funding for genome‐wide sequencing (GWS; exome and whole genome) is provincially regulated. We characterized the uptake of GWS by genetics health professionals (GHPs) across Canada and describe how they use remote technologies for patient access to GWS and genomic counseling. Methods We distributed a survey to 574 Canadian GHPs addressing: GWS use, remote technologies (e.g., telephone, videoconferencing) for GWS and provider opinions regarding these technologies. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Associations between variables were evaluated using Chi‐square and Fisher's Exact tests for categorical data, and t‐tests or Mann–Whitney U tests for continuous data. Results Of 116 GHPs, 50% reported using GWS in the last year and 57% of GWS users reported using remote technologies. Clinical geneticists who did not use GWS reported lack of provincial funding as the principal reason. Remote technologies were most commonly used for informed consent and results, and rarely used for initial consultations. Average wait times for a GWS appointment were shorter for remote appointments (mean 44.2 (SD 40.2) weeks) than for in‐person (mean 58.2 (SD 42.9), p = 0.036). Conclusion The use of GWS varied across Canada, professional designation, and discipline. Funding remains a barrier to GWS access. Remote technologies increase patient access with reduced wait times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Enns
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tasha Wainstein
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nick Dragojlovic
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicola Kopac
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Larry D Lynd
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, Providence Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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10
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Riddle L, Amendola LM, Gilmore MJ, Guerra C, Biesecker B, Kauffman TL, Anderson K, Rope AF, Leo MC, Caruncho M, Jarvik GP, Wilfond B, Goddard KAB, Joseph G. Development and early implementation of an Accessible, Relational, Inclusive and Actionable approach to genetic counseling: The ARIA model. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:969-978. [PMID: 33549385 PMCID: PMC8881934 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the training and early implementation of the ARIA model of genetic counseling (Accessible, Relational, Inclusive, Actionable). METHODS As part of the Cancer Health Assessments Reaching Many (CHARM) study, an interdisciplinary workgroup developed the ARIA curriculum and trained genetic counselors to return exome sequencing results using the ARIA model. CURRICULUM The ARIA curriculum includes didactic elements, discussion, readings, role plays, and observations of usual care genetic counseling sessions. The ARIA model provides the skills and strategies needed for genetic counseling to be accessible to all patients, regardless of prior knowledge or literacy level; involves appropriate psychological and social counseling without overwhelming the patient with information; and leaves the patient with clear and actionable next steps. CONCLUSION With sufficient training and practice, the ARIA model appears to be feasible, with promise for ensuring that genetic counselors' communication is accessible, relational, inclusive and actionable for the diverse patients participating in genomic medicine. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS ARIA offers a coherent set of principles and strategies for effective communication with patients of all literacy levels and outlines specific techniques to practice and incorporate these skills into routine practice. The ARIA model could be integrated into genetic counseling training programs and practice, making genetic counseling more accessible and meaningful for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Riddle
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1450 3rd St., San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Laura M Amendola
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, 1705 NE Pacific St. Box 357720, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Marian J Gilmore
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, 3800 N. Interstate Ave., Portland, OR 97227, USA
| | - Claudia Guerra
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1450 3rd St. Box 0128, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | | | - Tia L Kauffman
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, 3800 N. Interstate Ave., Portland, OR 97227, USA
| | - Katherine Anderson
- Denver Health and Hospital Authority, MC 3150, 777 Bannock, Denver, CO 80204, USA
| | - Alan F Rope
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, 3800 N. Interstate Ave., Portland, OR 97227, USA
| | - Michael C Leo
- Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, 3800 N. Interstate Ave., Portland, OR 97227, USA
| | - Mikaella Caruncho
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1450 3rd St., San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Gail P Jarvik
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, 1705 NE Pacific St. Box 357720, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Benjamin Wilfond
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Hospital and Research Institute, M/S JMB-6, 1900 Ninth Ave., Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Katrina A B Goddard
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, 3800 N. Interstate Ave., Portland, OR 97227, USA
| | - Galen Joseph
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1450 3rd St., San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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11
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Amendola LM, Golden-Grant K, Scollon S. Scaling Genetic Counseling in the Genomics Era. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2021; 22:339-355. [PMID: 33722076 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-110320-121752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The development of massively parallel sequencing-based genomic sequencing tests has increased genetic test availability and access. The field and practice of genetic counseling have adapted in response to this paradigm-shifting technology and the subsequent transition to practicing genomic medicine. While the key elements defining genetic counseling remain relevant, genetic counseling service delivery models and practice settings have evolved. Genetic counselors are addressing the challenges of direct-to-consumer and consumer-driven genetic testing, and genetic counseling training programs are responding to the ongoing increased demand for genetic counseling services across a broadening range of contexts. The need to diversify both the patient and participant groups with access to genetic information, as well as the field of genetic counseling, is at the forefront of research and training program initiatives. Genetic counselors are key stakeholders in the genomics era, and their contributions are essential to effectively and equitably deliver precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Amendola
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA; ,
| | - Katie Golden-Grant
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA; ,
| | - Sarah Scollon
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA;
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12
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Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are the most prevalent chronic medical conditions encountered in pediatric primary care. In addition to identifying appropriate descriptive diagnoses and guiding families to evidence-based treatments and supports, comprehensive care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders includes a search for an underlying etiologic diagnosis, primarily through a genetic evaluation. Identification of an underlying genetic etiology can inform prognosis, clarify recurrence risk, shape clinical management, and direct patients and families to condition-specific resources and supports. Here we review the utility of genetic testing in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and describe the three major testing modalities and their yields - chromosomal microarray, exome sequencing (with/without copy number variant calling), and FMR1 CGG repeat analysis for fragile X syndrome. Given the diagnostic yield of genetic testing and the potential for clinical and personal utility, there is consensus that genetic testing should be offered to all patients with global developmental delay, intellectual disability, and/or autism spectrum disorder. Despite this recommendation, data suggest that a minority of children with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability have undergone genetic testing. To address this gap in care, we describe a structured but flexible approach to facilitate integration of genetic testing into clinical practice across pediatric specialties and discuss future considerations for genetic testing in neurodevelopmental disorders to prepare pediatric providers to care for patients with such diagnoses today and tomorrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliann M. Savatt
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States
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13
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Erby LH, Wisniewski T, Lewis KL, Hernandez C, Biesecker LG, Biesecker BB. Adaptation of the working alliance inventory for the assessment of the therapeutic alliance in genetic counseling. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:11-21. [PMID: 33554391 PMCID: PMC10150706 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The concept of therapeutic alliance is central to genetic counseling as the mechanism through which the outcomes of empowerment and effective coping are likely to be achieved. To date, there have been no published systematic assessments of the therapeutic relationship in genetic counseling. We adapted a previously validated measure of the therapeutic alliance to genetic counseling and assessed its reliability and validity. Participants were enrolled in a clinical genomic study where they were randomized to receive education about carrier results via a Web platform or via a genetic counselor and then further randomized to receive genetic counseling (without additional education) or not. We rated the therapeutic alliance from audio recordings of 120 genetic counseling sessions. We modified the observer version of the Working Alliance Inventory (WAI-O), initially designed to assess therapeutic relationships in psychotherapy. We examined internal consistency reliability by calculating Cronbach's alpha and inter-rater reliability through both percent agreement and Gwet's alternative agreement coefficient (AC). Regression analyses were used to evaluate the relationship of WAI-O scores with session length and with the designation of the session as one in which prior education was delivered by the genetic counselor or not. The adapted scale had high-reliability characteristics with agreement of 88%-93%, Gwet's AC of 0.84-0.90, and Cronbach's alpha of 0.89-0.93 for the three WAI-O subscales (bonds, goals, and tasks). Although there was no difference in alliance based on whether prior education was provided by the genetic counselor, the total WAI-O score significantly increased with increasing session length (beta =0.667, p<.001), providing preliminary evidence of construct validity. The WAI-O that we have adapted can be used reliably with two independent raters to assess the therapeutic alliance in studies of genetic counseling. The initial evidence for construct validity is promising and should be reassessed in future genetic counseling studies using the WAI-O.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori H Erby
- Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tyler Wisniewski
- Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Katie L Lewis
- Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christian Hernandez
- Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Leslie G Biesecker
- Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Barbara B Biesecker
- Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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14
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MacLeod R, Metcalfe A, Ferrer-Duch M. A family systems approach to genetic counseling: Development of narrative interventions. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:22-29. [PMID: 33438335 PMCID: PMC7898613 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
To what extent are family systems approaches relevant in the genomics era? What difference does it make to remember the wider social context within which ‘problems’ associated with a genetic diagnosis reside? How does this influence the conversations we have with our patients? These questions will be considered in relation to systemic approaches to genetic counseling practice. Narrative therapy with an emphasis on people's strengths, wishes, and ways of resisting the effects of a problem may be a particularly useful framework for genetic counselors. Narrative practice views people as multi‐storied and is concerned with the question of how we encourage people to tell their stories in ways that make them feel stronger. Increased uptake of genomic testing and the number of people seeking genetic counseling present opportunities to consider new ways of working, particularly around support following a new genetic diagnosis. One option is to realize the potential of group interventions. Family therapy and narrative practices have the potential to encourage communication and for families to learn from each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhona MacLeod
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alison Metcalfe
- Faculty of Health and Well-being, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Mariangels Ferrer-Duch
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Riverbank Psychology, Manchester, UK
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15
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Medendorp NM, van den Heuvel LM, Han PKJ, Hillen MA, Smets EMA. Communication skills training for healthcare professionals in providing genetic counseling: A scoping literature review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:20-32. [PMID: 32782179 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Genetic counselors need advanced communication skills, particularly when discussing tests involving massively parallel sequencing. Increasingly, non-genetic healthcare professionals (HCPs) also need to provide genetic counseling. Communication skills training (CST) may equip HCPs with the required communication skills. This scoping review provides an overview of the content, approach, effectiveness and effective features of CSTs aimed at improving genetic and non-genetic HCPs' communication skills in providing genetic counseling. METHODS Following the PRISMA-ScR statement, four databases were searched for articles. Two researchers independently screened titles and abstracts, and extracted data. When applicable, information on effectiveness and effective features of CST was collated. RESULTS Twenty-three articles were included. Sixteen CSTs targeted non-genetic HCPs, five targeted genetic HCPs and two targeted both. Most CSTs addressed multiple communication behaviors and consisted of role play. CSTs were found to be effective for improving HCPs (mainly self-reported) attitudes and skills. Limited evidence on specific effective features of CST was found. CONCLUSIONS There is a clear need for evidence on the effectiveness of CST on improving both HCPs' communication skills in the context of genetic counseling, and patient outcomes, and its specific effective features. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Clinical practice could benefit from evidence-based CST for genetic and non-genetic HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki M Medendorp
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Lieke M van den Heuvel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul K J Han
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Marij A Hillen
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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16
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Lynch F, Nisselle A, Gaff CL, McClaren B. Rapid acute care genomics: Challenges and opportunities for genetic counselors. J Genet Couns 2020; 30:30-41. [PMID: 33238072 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Genomic medicine in pediatric acute care is showing great promise, with rapid results from exome and genome sequencing returned within days providing critically important information for treatment and management of seriously ill children. Many have suggested that rapid acute care genomics presents novel genetic counseling issues. This is due to the need for rapid response to referrals, the immense emotional distress that parents are likely to experience when their child is in acute care, and the unfamiliar environment of the acute care setting. To explore the practice of genetic counselors in this setting, we conducted qualitative interviews with 16 genetic counselors (GCs), representing a large proportion of GCs at the frontline of providing genetic counseling in acute care settings in Australia. Interviews revealed themes describing genetic counseling in acute care, including practical challenges of counseling within a rapid turnaround time, similarities with other contexts such as prenatal counseling, and the need for education of other health professionals. Interestingly, GCs did not raise concerns in the interviews for parents' ability to provide informed consent for rapid genomic sequencing. GCs also encountered practical and organizational challenges with counseling in this setting where 24-hr care is provided, at odds with traditional '9 to 5' Genetics service delivery. Working closely in a multidisciplinary team was common and participants believed that GCs are well positioned to take a leading role in the education of other health professionals as rapid acute care genomics becomes routine clinical practice. Despite views that genetic counseling practice in rapid acute care genomics is unique, these exploratory data suggest that GCs are flexible, adaptable, and sufficiently skilled to deliver patient-centered counseling in this setting. Our work indicates GCs are ready and willing to contribute at an early stage of adoption of genomic investigations in acute care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Lynch
- Australian Genomics Health Alliance, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Amy Nisselle
- Australian Genomics Health Alliance, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Clara L Gaff
- Australian Genomics Health Alliance, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Belinda McClaren
- Australian Genomics Health Alliance, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Genomics in Society, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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17
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Godino L, Varesco L, Bruno W, Bruzzone C, Battistuzzi L, Franiuk M, Miccoli S, Bertonazzi B, Graziano C, Seri M, Turchetti D. Preferences of Italian patients for return of secondary findings from clinical genome/exome sequencing. J Genet Couns 2020; 30:665-675. [PMID: 33142017 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Exome/genome sequencing (ES/GS) is increasingly becoming routine in clinical genetic diagnosis, yet issues regarding how to disclose and manage secondary findings (SFs) remain to be addressed, and limited evidence is available on patients' preferences. We carried out semi-structured interviews with 307 individuals undergoing clinical genetic testing to explore their preferences for return of SFs in the hypothetical scenario that their test would be performed using ES/GS. Participants were 254 females (82.7%) and 53 males (17.3%), aged 18-86 years; 73.9% (81.1% of those with lower education levels) reported no prior knowledge of ES/GS. Prior knowledge of ES/GS was more common among patients tested for Mendelian conditions (34.5%), compared to those undergoing cancer genetic testing (22.3%) or carrier screening (7.4%). Despite this reported lack of knowledge, most participants (213, 69.6%) stated they would prefer to be informed of all possible results. Reasons in favor of disclosure included wanting to be aware of any risks (168; 83.6%) and to help relatives (23; 11.4%), but also hope that preventive measures might become available in the future (10, 5%). Conversely, potential negative impact on quality of life was the commonest motivation against disclosure. Among 179 participants seen for cancer genetic counseling who were interviewed again after test disclosure, 81.9% had not heard about ES/GS in the meantime; however, the proportion of participants opting for disclosure of any variants was lower (116; 64.8%), with 36 (20.1%) changing opinion compared to the first interview. Based on these findings, we conclude that genetic counseling for ES/GS should involve enhanced education and decision-making support to enable informed consent to SFs disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Godino
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche: Centro di Ricerca sui Tumori Ereditari, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Liliana Varesco
- UOS Tumori Ereditari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - William Bruno
- SSD Genetica dei Tumori Rari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova - Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Carla Bruzzone
- UOS Tumori Ereditari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Linda Battistuzzi
- Dipartimento di Informatica, Bioingegneria, Robotica e Ingegneria dei Sistemi, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Marzena Franiuk
- UOS Tumori Ereditari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Sara Miccoli
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche: Centro di Ricerca sui Tumori Ereditari, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bertonazzi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Graziano
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Seri
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Turchetti
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche: Centro di Ricerca sui Tumori Ereditari, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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18
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Schupmann W, Jamal L, Berkman BE. Re-examining the Ethics of Genetic Counselling in the Genomic Era. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2020; 17:325-335. [PMID: 32557217 PMCID: PMC10084396 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-020-09983-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Respect for patient autonomy has served as the dominant ethical principle of genetic counselling, but as we move into a genomic era, it is time to actively re-examine the role that this principle plays in genetic counselling practice. In this paper, we argue that the field of genetic counselling should move away from its emphasis on patient autonomy and toward the incorporation of a more balanced set of principles that allows counsellors to offer clear guidance about how best to obtain or use genetic information. We begin with a brief history of how respect for patient autonomy gained such emphasis in the field and how it has taken on various manifestations over time, including the problematic concept of nondirectiveness. After acknowledging the field's preliminary move away from nondirectiveness, we turn to a series of arguments about why the continued dominance of patient autonomy has become untenable given the arrival of the genomic era. To conclude, we describe how a more complete set of bioethical principles can be adapted and used by genetic counsellors to strengthen their practice without undermining patient autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Will Schupmann
- Department of Bioethics, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr., Bldg. 10/Room 1C118, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Leila Jamal
- Department of Bioethics, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health; National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, 10 Center Dr., Bldg. 10/Room 1C118, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Benjamin E Berkman
- Department of Bioethics, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health; Bioethics Core, National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, 10 Center Dr., Bldg. 10/Room 1C118, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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19
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Rego S, Grove ME, Cho MK, Ormond KE. Informed Consent in the Genomics Era. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a036582. [PMID: 31570382 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Informed consent, the process of gathering autonomous authorization for a medical intervention or medical research participation, is a fundamental component of medical practice. Medical informed consent assumes decision-making capacity, voluntariness, comprehension, and adequate information. The increasing use of genetic testing, particularly genomic sequencing, in clinical and research settings has presented many new challenges for clinicians and researchers when obtaining informed consent. Many of these challenges revolve around the need for patient comprehension of sufficient information. Genomic sequencing is complex-all of the possible results are too numerous to explain, and many of the risks and benefits remain unknown. Thus, historical standards of consent are difficult to apply. Alternative models of consent have been proposed to increase patient understanding, and several have empirically demonstrated effectiveness. However, there is still a striking lack of consensus in the genetics community about what constitutes informed consent in the context of genomic sequencing. Multiple approaches are needed to address this challenge, including consensus building around standards, targeted use of genetic counselors in nongenetics clinics in which genomic testing is ordered, and the development and testing of alternative models for obtaining informed consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Rego
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Megan E Grove
- Stanford Medicine Clinical Genomics Program, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Mildred K Cho
- Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University Department of Pediatrics, Stanford, California 94305, USA.,Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Kelly E Ormond
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford, California 94305, USA.,Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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20
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Elliott AM. Genetic Counseling and Genome Sequencing in Pediatric Rare Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a036632. [PMID: 31501267 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Both genome sequencing (GS) and exome sequencing (ES) have proven to be revolutionary in the diagnosis of pediatric rare disease. The diagnostic potential and increasing affordability make GS and ES more accessible as a routine clinical test in some centers. Herein, I review aspects of rare disease in pediatrics associated with the use of genomic technologies with an emphasis on the benefits and limitations of both ES and GS, complexities of variant classification, and the importance of genetic counseling. Indications for testing, the role of genetic counselors in genomic test selection, and the diagnostic potential of ES and GS in various pediatric multisystem disorders are discussed. The neonatal population represents an important cohort in pediatric rare disease. Rapid ES and GS in critically ill neonates can have an immediate impact on medical management and present unique genetic counseling challenges. This work includes reviews of recommendations for genetic counseling for families considering genome-wide sequencing, and issues of access to genetic counseling that affect clinical use and will necessitate implementation of innovative methods such as online decision aids. Finally, this work will also review the challenges of having a child with a rare disease, the impact of results from ES and GS on these families, and the role of various support agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia Investigator, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and BC Women's Health Research Institute, and Provincial Medical Genetics Program, Vancouver, British Columbia V6H 3N1, Canada
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21
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Battistuzzi L, Franiuk M, Kasparian N, Rania N, Migliorini L, Varesco L. A qualitative study on decision‐making about
BRCA1/2
testing in Italian women. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 28:e13083. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Battistuzzi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering University of Genoa Genoa Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Marzena Franiuk
- Unit of Hereditary Cancer San Martino Polyclinic Hospital Genoa Italy
| | - Nadine Kasparian
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts
- Department of Cardiology Boston Children’s Hospital Boston Massachusetts
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women’s and Children’s Health UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Nadia Rania
- Department of Education Sciences University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Laura Migliorini
- Department of Education Sciences University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Liliana Varesco
- Unit of Hereditary Cancer San Martino Polyclinic Hospital Genoa Italy
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22
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Delivering effective genetic services for patients and families affected by cleft lip and/or palate. Eur J Hum Genet 2019; 27:1018-1025. [PMID: 30683926 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-018-0333-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic services for individuals affected by cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) and their families are an important aspect of clinical care; yet debate exists as to how this service should be offered. This study explored the utility, acceptability, and delivery of genetic services from the perspectives of cleft-specialist clinicians, genetic counsellors, and affected families. Analysis of data collected from three focus groups and eleven individual interviews identified two overarching themes "Referring patients and families to genetic services" and "The role of a genetic specialist in the context of CL/P". The first examines the common reasons for referral to the genetics service, how best to judge the timing of a referral, and the optimal approach to the delivery of sensitive genetic information. The second theme discusses the role of the genetic specialist in the context of cleft care, including the optimal management of affected individuals and their families, and the delivery of basic genetics training and support for health professionals working in other disciplines. A model for the effective delivery of genetic services in CL/P is subsequently proposed. Coordination and financial implications of the proposed model ultimately require further consideration and evaluation to determine its effectiveness.
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23
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Dwarte T, Barlow-Stewart K, O’Shea R, Dinger ME, Terrill B. Role and practice evolution for genetic counseling in the genomic era: The experience of Australian and UK genetics practitioners. J Genet Couns 2018; 28:378-387. [DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Dwarte
- Discipline of Genetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School; University of Sydney, St Leonards; NSW Australia
| | - Kristine Barlow-Stewart
- Discipline of Genetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School; University of Sydney, St Leonards; NSW Australia
| | - Rosie O’Shea
- Discipline of Genetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School; University of Sydney, St Leonards; NSW Australia
| | - Marcel E. Dinger
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics; Garvan Institute of Medical Research; Darlinghurst NSW Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney; Kensington NSW Australia
| | - Bronwyn Terrill
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics; Garvan Institute of Medical Research; Darlinghurst NSW Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney; Kensington NSW Australia
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24
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Esteban I, Lopez-Fernandez A, Balmaña J. A narrative overview of the patients' outcomes after multigene cancer panel testing, and a thorough evaluation of its implications for genetic counselling. Eur J Med Genet 2018; 62:342-349. [PMID: 30476626 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Massively parallel sequencing is being implemented in clinical practice through the use of multigene panel testing, whole exome sequencing and whole genome sequencing. In this manuscript we explore how the use of massively parallel sequencing, and in particular multigene cancer panel testing, is potentially changing the process of genetic counselling and how patients cope with pre-test genetic counselling and results. We found that the main challenges are around uncertainty, hopes and expectations and the amount and complexity of information that needs to be discussed. This may impact the process of genetic counselling, although genetic counsellors can still use their core skills and enhance some of them in order to evolve and meet patients' needs in the genomics era. Available data suggests that patients can cope with multigene cancer panels although more research is needed to fully understand the psychosocial implications of multigene cancer panels for patients, especially for those who have variants of unknown significance or moderate penetrance variants. Research is also needed to explore and develop communication models that maximize patients' understanding and empower them to make informed decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Esteban
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Scotland, UK.
| | - A Lopez-Fernandez
- High Risk and Cancer Prevention Unit, Vall D'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Balmaña
- High Risk and Cancer Prevention Unit, Vall D'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain; Medical Oncology Department, Vall D'Hebron Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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25
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Genomic technology can now deliver cost effective, targeted diagnosis and treatment for patients. Genetic counselling is a communication process empowering patients and families to make autonomous decisions and effectively use new genetic information. The skills of genetic counselling and expertise of genetic counsellors are integral to the effective implementation of genomic medicine. SOURCES OF DATA Original papers, reviews, guidelines, policy papers and web-resources. AREAS OF AGREEMENT An international consensus on the definition of genetic counselling. Genetic counselling is necessary for implementation of genomic medicine. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY Models of genetic counselling. GROWING POINTS Genomic medicine is a growing and strategic priority for many health care systems. Genetic counselling is part of this. AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH An evidence base is necessary, incorporating implementation and outcome research, to enable health care systems, practitioners, patients and families to maximize the utility (medically and psychologically) of the new genomic possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Patch
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King’s College London, 57 Waterloo Road, London
- Genetic Counselling, Genomics England, Queen Mary University of London, Dawson Hall, London
- Correspondence address. Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, 57 Waterloo Road, London SE1 8WA. E-mail:
| | - Anna Middleton
- Society and Ethics Research, Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
- Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, 184 Hills Road, Cambridge, UK
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Codeine and opioid metabolism: implications and alternatives for pediatric pain management. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2018; 30:349-356. [PMID: 28323671 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Use of perioperative opioids for surgical pain management of children presents clinical challenges because of concerns of serious adverse effects including life-threatening respiratory depression. This is especially true for children with history of obstructive sleep apnea. This review will explore current knowledge of clinically relevant factors and genetic polymorphisms that affect opioid metabolism and postoperative outcomes in children. RECENT FINDINGS Within the past several years, an increasing number of case reports have illustrated clinically important respiratory depression, anoxic brain injuries and even death among children receiving appropriate weight-based dosages of codeine and other opioids for analgesia at home setting particularly following tonsillectomy. Several national and international organizations have issued advisories on use of codeine in pediatrics, based on cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily D type 6 (CYP2D6) pharmacogenetics. We have discussed the pros and cons of alternatives to codeine for pain management. SUMMARY Although routine preoperative genotyping to identify children at risk and personalized opioid use for pediatric perioperative pain management is still a distant reality, current known implications of CYP2D6 pharmacogenetics on codeine use shows that pharmacogenetics has the potential to guide anesthesia providers on perioperative opioid selection and dosing to maximize efficacy and safety.
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Schmidlen T, Sturm AC, Hovick S, Scheinfeldt L, Scott Roberts J, Morr L, McElroy J, Toland AE, Christman M, O'Daniel JM, Gordon ES, Bernhardt BA, Ormond KE, Sweet K. Operationalizing the Reciprocal Engagement Model of Genetic Counseling Practice: a Framework for the Scalable Delivery of Genomic Counseling and Testing. J Genet Couns 2018; 27:1111-1129. [PMID: 29460110 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-018-0230-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
With the advent of widespread genomic testing for diagnostic indications and disease risk assessment, there is increased need to optimize genetic counseling services to support the scalable delivery of precision medicine. Here, we describe how we operationalized the reciprocal engagement model of genetic counseling practice to develop a framework of counseling components and strategies for the delivery of genomic results. This framework was constructed based upon qualitative research with patients receiving genomic counseling following online receipt of potentially actionable complex disease and pharmacogenomics reports. Consultation with a transdisciplinary group of investigators, including practicing genetic counselors, was sought to ensure broad scope and applicability of these strategies for use with any large-scale genomic testing effort. We preserve the provision of pre-test education and informed consent as established in Mendelian/single-gene disease genetic counseling practice. Following receipt of genomic results, patients are afforded the opportunity to tailor the counseling agenda by selecting the specific test results they wish to discuss, specifying questions for discussion, and indicating their preference for counseling modality. The genetic counselor uses these patient preferences to set the genomic counseling session and to personalize result communication and risk reduction recommendations. Tailored visual aids and result summary reports divide areas of risk (genetic variant, family history, lifestyle) for each disease to facilitate discussion of multiple disease risks. Post-counseling, session summary reports are actively routed to both the patient and their physician team to encourage review and follow-up. Given the breadth of genomic information potentially resulting from genomic testing, this framework is put forth as a starting point to meet the need for scalable genetic counseling services in the delivery of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Schmidlen
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA.,Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Amy C Sturm
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA.,Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - Shelly Hovick
- School of Communication, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43214, USA
| | - Laura Scheinfeldt
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - J Scott Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lindsey Morr
- School of Communication, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43214, USA
| | - Joseph McElroy
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Biostatistics, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - Amanda E Toland
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - Michael Christman
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Julianne M O'Daniel
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Erynn S Gordon
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA.,Genome Medical, Monterey, CA, 93940, USA
| | - Barbara A Bernhardt
- Division of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Kelly E Ormond
- Department of Genetics and Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Kevin Sweet
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA.
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Brett GR, Wilkins EJ, Creed ET, West K, Jarmolowicz A, Valente GM, Prawer Y, Lynch E, Macciocca I. Genetic Counseling in the Era of Genomics: What’s all the Fuss about? J Genet Couns 2018; 27:1010-1021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-018-0216-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Muenke
- National Human Genome Research InstituteNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Suzanne Hart
- National Human Genome Research InstituteNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
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30
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Steffen LE, Du R, Gammon A, Mandelblatt JS, Kohlmann WK, Lee JH, Buys SS, Stroup AM, Campo RA, Flores KG, Vicuña B, Schwartz MD, Kinney AY. Genetic Testing in a Population-Based Sample of Breast and Ovarian Cancer Survivors from the REACH Randomized Trial: Cost Barriers and Moderators of Counseling Mode. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017; 26:1772-1780. [PMID: 28971986 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-17-0389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study evaluates predictors of BRCA1/2 testing among breast and ovarian cancer survivors who received genetic counseling as part of a randomized trial and evaluates moderators of counseling mode on testing uptake.Methods: Predictors of BRCA1/2 testing within one year postcounseling were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression in a population-based sample of breast and ovarian cancer survivors at increased hereditary risk randomly assigned to in-person counseling (IPC; n = 379) versus telephone counseling (TC; n = 402). Variables that moderated the association between counseling mode and testing were identified by subgroup analysis.Results: Testing uptake was associated with higher perceived comparative mutation risk [OR = 1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.11-1.57] in the adjusted analysis. Those without cost barriers had higher testing uptake (OR = 18.73; 95% CI, 7.09-49.46). Psychologic distress and perceived comparative mutation risk moderated the effect of counseling and testing. Uptake between IPC versus TC did not differ at low levels of distress and risk, but differed at high distress (26.3% TC vs. 44.3% IPC) and high perceived comparative risk (33.9% TC vs. 50.5% IPC).Conclusions: Cost concerns are a strong determinant of testing. Differences in testing uptake by counseling mode may depend on precounseling distress and risk perceptions.Impact: Cost concerns may contribute to low testing in population-based samples of at-risk cancer survivors. Precounseling psychosocial characteristics should be considered when offering in-person versus telephone counseling. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(12); 1772-80. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie E Steffen
- Department of Social Sciences & Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Ruofei Du
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Amanda Gammon
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Jeanne S Mandelblatt
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center and Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC
| | - Wendy K Kohlmann
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Ji-Hyun Lee
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Saundra S Buys
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Antoinette M Stroup
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.,Department of Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Rebecca A Campo
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kristina G Flores
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Belinda Vicuña
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Marc D Schwartz
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center and Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC
| | - Anita Y Kinney
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico. .,Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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31
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Adam S, Friedman JM. Controversy and debate on clinical genomics sequencing-paper 2: clinical genome-wide sequencing: don't throw out the baby with the bathwater! J Clin Epidemiol 2017; 92:7-10. [PMID: 28916491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide (exome or whole genome) sequencing with appropriate genetic counseling should be considered for any patient with a suspected Mendelian disease that has not been identified by conventional testing. Clinical genome-wide sequencing provides a powerful and effective means of identifying specific genetic causes of serious disease and improving clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelin Adam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Children and Women's Hospital, University of British Columbia, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6H 3V4, Canada.
| | - Jan M Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Children and Women's Hospital, University of British Columbia, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6H 3V4, Canada
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32
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Sweet K, Sturm AC, Schmidlen T, McElroy J, Scheinfeldt L, Manickam K, Gordon ES, Hovick S, Scott Roberts J, Toland AE, Christman M. Outcomes of a Randomized Controlled Trial of Genomic Counseling for Patients Receiving Personalized and Actionable Complex Disease Reports. J Genet Couns 2017; 26:980-998. [PMID: 28345121 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0073-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
There has been very limited study of patients with chronic disease receiving potentially actionable genomic based results or the utilization of genetic counselors in the online result delivery process. We conducted a randomized controlled trial on 199 patients with chronic disease each receiving eight personalized and actionable complex disease reports online. Primary study aims were to assess the impact of in-person genomic counseling on 1) causal attribution of disease risk, 2) personal awareness of disease risk, and 3) perceived risk of developing a particular disease. Of 98 intervention arm participants (mean age = 57.8; 39% female) randomized for in-person genomic counseling, 76 (78%) were seen. In contrast, control arm participants (n = 101; mean age = 58.5; 54% female) were initially not offered genomic counseling as part of the study protocol but were able to access in-person genomic counseling, if they requested it, 3-months post viewing of at least one test report and post-completion of the study-specific follow-up survey. A total of 64 intervention arm and 59 control arm participants completed follow-up survey measures. We found that participants receiving in-person genomic counseling had enhanced objective understanding of the genetic variant risk contribution for multiple complex diseases. Genomic counseling was associated with lowered participant causal beliefs in genetic influence across all eight diseases, compared to control participants. Our findings also illustrate that for the majority of diseases under study, intervention arm participants believed they knew their genetic risk status better than control arm subjects. Disease risk was modified for the majority during genomic counseling, due to the assessment of more comprehensive family history. In conclusion, for patients receiving personalized and actionable genomic results through a web portal, genomic counseling enhanced their objective understanding of the genetic variant risk contribution to multiple common diseases. These results support the development of additional genomic counseling interventions to ensure a high level of patient comprehension and improve patient-centered health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Sweet
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43420, USA.
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University, 2001 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH, 43212, USA.
| | - Amy C Sturm
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43420, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43420, USA
| | - Tara Schmidlen
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Joseph McElroy
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Biostatistics, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - Laura Scheinfeldt
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
- Temple University, SERC Building, 1925 N. 12th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19122-1801, USA
| | - Kandamurugu Manickam
- Geisinger Health System, Genomic Medicine Institute, Precision Health Center, 190 Welles Street, Suite 128, Forty Fort, PA, 18704, USA
| | - Erynn S Gordon
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
- Genome Medical, Monterey, CA, 93940, USA
| | - Shelly Hovick
- School of Communication, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43214, USA
| | - J Scott Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Amanda Ewart Toland
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43420, USA
| | - Michael Christman
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
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33
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Hooker GW, Babu D, Myers MF, Zierhut H, McAllister M. Standards for the Reporting of Genetic Counseling Interventions in Research and Other Studies (GCIRS): an NSGC Task Force Report. J Genet Couns 2017; 26:355-360. [PMID: 28236280 PMCID: PMC5415582 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0076-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
As the demand for evidence to support the value of genetic counseling increases, it is critical that reporting of genetic counseling interventions in research and other types of studies (e.g. process improvement or service evaluation studies) adopt greater rigor. As in other areas of healthcare, the appraisal, synthesis, and translation of research findings into genetic counseling practice are likely to be improved if clear specifications of genetic counseling interventions are reported when studies involving genetic counseling are published. To help improve reporting practices, the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) convened a task force in 2015 to develop consensus standards for the reporting of genetic counseling interventions. Following review by the NSGC Board of Directors, the NSGC Practice Guidelines Committee and the editorial board of the Journal of Genetic Counseling, 23 items across 8 domains were proposed as standards for the reporting of genetic counseling interventions in the published literature (GCIRS: Genetic Counseling Intervention Reporting Standards). The authors recommend adoption of these standards by authors and journals when reporting studies involving genetic counseling interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian W Hooker
- NextGxDx, 810 Crescent Centre Dr, Suite 280, Franklin, TN, 37067, USA.
| | - D Babu
- Ambry Genetics, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA
| | - M F Myers
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - H Zierhut
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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34
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Wang MH, Weng H. Genetic Test, Risk Prediction, and Counseling. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1005:21-46. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-5717-5_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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35
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Pediatric Whole Exome Sequencing: an Assessment of Parents’ Perceived and Actual Understanding. J Genet Couns 2016; 26:792-805. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-0052-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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36
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Sweet K, Hovick S, Sturm AC, Schmidlen T, Gordon E, Bernhardt B, Wawak L, Wernke K, McElroy J, Scheinfeldt L, Toland AE, Roberts JS, Christman M. Counselees' Perspectives of Genomic Counseling Following Online Receipt of Multiple Actionable Complex Disease and Pharmacogenomic Results: a Qualitative Research Study. J Genet Couns 2016; 26:738-751. [PMID: 27921197 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-0044-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Genomic applications raise multiple challenges including the optimization of genomic counseling (GC) services as part of the results delivery process. More information on patients' motivations, preferences, and informational needs are essential to guide the development of new, more efficient practice delivery models that capitalize on the existing strengths of a limited genetic counseling workforce. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with a subset of counselees from the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative following online receipt of multiple personalized genomic test reports. Participants previously had either in-person GC (chronic disease cohort, n = 20; mean age 60 years) or telephone GC (community cohort, n = 31; mean age 46.8 years). Transcripts were analyzed using a Grounded Theory framework. Major themes that emerged from the interviews include 1) primary reasons for seeking GC were to clarify results, put results into perspective relative to other health-related concerns, and to receive personalized recommendations; 2) there is need for a more participant driven approach in terms of mode of GC communication (in-person, phone, video), and refining the counseling agenda pre-session; and 3) there was strong interest in the option of follow up GC. By clarifying counselees' expectations, views and desired outcomes, we have uncovered a need for a more participant-driven GC model when potentially actionable genomic results are received online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Sweet
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA.
| | - Shelly Hovick
- School of Communication, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43214, USA
| | - Amy C Sturm
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43420, USA
| | - Tara Schmidlen
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | | | - Barbara Bernhardt
- Division of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lisa Wawak
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Karen Wernke
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - Joseph McElroy
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Biostatistics, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - Laura Scheinfeldt
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA.,Temple University, SERC Building 1925 N. 12th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19122-1801, USA
| | - Amanda E Toland
- Division of Human Genetics, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 2012 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH, 43221, USA
| | - J S Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michael Christman
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
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37
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Nariman A, Sobhan MR, Savaei M, Aref-Eshghi E, Nourinejad R, Manoochehri M, Ghahremani S, Daliri F, Daliri K. The genetic background of Southern Iranian couples before marriage. Balkan J Med Genet 2016; 19:71-74. [PMID: 28289591 PMCID: PMC5343333 DOI: 10.1515/bjmg-2016-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic service for couples plays an increasingly important role in diagnosis and risk management. This study investigated the status of consanguinity and the medical genetic history (effectiveness and coverage of medical genetic services) in couples residing in a city in southern Iran. We questioned couples who were referred to Behbahan Marital Counseling Center, Behbahan, Iran, during the period from January to November 2014, to obtain information on consanguinity, disease history, and previous referral to a medical genetics center. For the collected data was obtained descriptive statistics with STATA 11.0 software. A total of 500 couples were questioned. Mean age was 24.8 ± 5.2 years. Almost one quarter (23.4%) of the couples were consanguineous. Consanguinity was almost twice as common in rural areas as in urban areas (33.9 vs. 19.2%, p = 0.001). Only a few couples (~3.0%) had ever been referred for genetic counseling. The main reason for previous genetic counseling was consanguinity (85.7%). The majority of the participants (96.3%) had never been tested for any genetic conditions. Our findings suggest that only a small proportion of couples in Khuzestan Province, Iran (Behbahan City) were receiving adequate genetics care. This may reflect the limited accessibility of such services, and inadequate awareness and education among the care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nariman
- Department of Human Genetics, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | - MR Sobhan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - M Savaei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | - E Aref-Eshghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - R Nourinejad
- Department of Human Genetics, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | - M Manoochehri
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - S Ghahremani
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Daliri
- Department of Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht Branch, Marvdasht, Iran
| | - K Daliri
- Department of Human Genetics, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
- Dr. Karim Daliri, Department of Human Genetics, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Bashir Boulevard, Behbahan, Iran. Tel: +98-9374140937. Fax: +98-9374140937
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38
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Risk for Patient Harm in Canadian Genetic Counseling Practice: It’s Time to Consider Regulation. J Genet Couns 2016; 26:93-104. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-9983-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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39
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Smith JS. Catching a Speeding Train: Social Work's Disconnect with a Medical Revolution. SOCIAL WORK 2016; 61:186-187. [PMID: 27180533 DOI: 10.1093/sw/sww013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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40
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Linderman MD, Nielsen DE, Green RC. Personal Genome Sequencing in Ostensibly Healthy Individuals and the PeopleSeq Consortium. J Pers Med 2016; 6:E14. [PMID: 27023617 PMCID: PMC4932461 DOI: 10.3390/jpm6020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thousands of ostensibly healthy individuals have had their exome or genome sequenced, but a much smaller number of these individuals have received any personal genomic results from that sequencing. We term those projects in which ostensibly healthy participants can receive sequencing-derived genetic findings and may also have access to their genomic data as participatory predispositional personal genome sequencing (PPGS). Here we are focused on genome sequencing applied in a pre-symptomatic context and so define PPGS to exclude diagnostic genome sequencing intended to identify the molecular cause of suspected or diagnosed genetic disease. In this report we describe the design of completed and underway PPGS projects, briefly summarize the results reported to date and introduce the PeopleSeq Consortium, a newly formed collaboration of PPGS projects designed to collect much-needed longitudinal outcome data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Linderman
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Daiva E Nielsen
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Robert C Green
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
- Partners Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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41
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Suckiel SA, Linderman MD, Sanderson SC, Diaz GA, Wasserstein M, Kasarskis A, Schadt EE, Zinberg RE. Impact of Genomic Counseling on Informed Decision-Making among ostensibly Healthy Individuals Seeking Personal Genome Sequencing: the HealthSeq Project. J Genet Couns 2016; 25:1044-53. [PMID: 26898680 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-9935-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Personal genome sequencing is increasingly utilized by healthy individuals for predispositional screening and other applications. However, little is known about the impact of 'genomic counseling' on informed decision-making in this context. Our primary aim was to compare measures of participants' informed decision-making before and after genomic counseling in the HealthSeq project, a longitudinal cohort study of individuals receiving personal results from whole genome sequencing (WGS). Our secondary aims were to assess the impact of the counseling on WGS knowledge and concerns, and to explore participants' satisfaction with the counseling. Questionnaires were administered to participants (n = 35) before and after their pre-test genomic counseling appointment. Informed decision-making was measured using the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) and the Satisfaction with Decision Scale (SDS). DCS scores decreased after genomic counseling (mean: 11.34 before vs. 5.94 after; z = -4.34, p < 0.001, r = 0.52), and SDS scores increased (mean: 27.91 vs. 29.06 respectively; z = 2.91, p = 0.004, r = 0.35). Satisfaction with counseling was high (mean (SD) = 26.91 (2.68), on a scale where 6 = low and 30 = high satisfaction). HealthSeq participants felt that their decision regarding receiving personal results from WGS was more informed after genomic counseling. Further research comparing the impact of different genomic counseling models is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina A Suckiel
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA. .,Icahn Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Michael D Linderman
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA.,Icahn Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Saskia C Sanderson
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA.,Icahn Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Health Behaviour Research Centre, University College London, London, UK
| | - George A Diaz
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA
| | - Melissa Wasserstein
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew Kasarskis
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA.,Icahn Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric E Schadt
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA.,Icahn Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Randi E Zinberg
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1498, New York, NY, USA
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Goetsch AL, Wicklund C, Clayman ML, Woodruff TK. Reproductive Endocrinologists' Utilization of Genetic Counselors for Oncofertility and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) Treatment of BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers. J Genet Couns 2015; 25:561-71. [PMID: 26567039 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9908-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Genetic counselors believe fertility preservation and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) discussions to be a part of their role when counseling BRCA1/2 mutation-positive patients. This study is the first to explore reproductive endocrinologists' (REI) practices and attitudes regarding involvement of genetic counselors in the care of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers seeking fertility preservation and PGD. A survey was mailed to 1000 REIs from Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (SREI), an American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) affiliate group. A 14.5 % response rate was achieved; data was analyzed using SPSS software. The majority of participating REIs were found to recommend genetic counseling to cancer patients considering fertility preservation (82 %) and consult with a genetic counselor regarding PGD for hereditary cancer syndromes (92 %). Additionally, REIs consult genetic counselors regarding PGD patient counseling (88 %), genetic testing (78 %), and general genetics questions (66 %). Two areas genetic counselors may further aid REIs are: elicitation of family history, which is useful to determine fertility preservation and PGD intervention timing (32 % of REIs utilize a cancer family history to determine intervention timing); and, interpretation of variants of uncertain significance (VOUS) as cancer panel genetic testing becomes more common (36 % of REIs are unfamiliar with VOUS). Given our findings, the Oncofertility Consortium® created an online resource for genetic counselors focused on fertility preservation education and communication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison L Goetsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E. Superior St, Lurie 10-231, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Catherine Wicklund
- Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Marla L Clayman
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E. Superior St, Lurie 10-231, Chicago, IL, USA
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Chambers C, Jansen LA, Dhamija R. Review of Commercially Available Epilepsy Genetic Panels. J Genet Couns 2015; 25:213-7. [PMID: 26536886 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9906-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Next generation sequencing panels have revolutionized the diagnostic approach to patients with epilepsy. There are several commercial epilepsy panels available. We assessed the list of genes tested and consent forms for epilepsy panels available at seven laboratories. The panels varied in the number of genes included (70-465 genes). In some panels, genes not currently associated with epilepsy were included (up to 4 % of panel content). The panels also included genes for lysosomal storage disorders (6-12 %), congenital disorders of glycosylation (0-8.5 %), metabolic disorders (3.5-34 %), neurological syndromes (18-43 %) and multisystemic genetic syndromes (6.4-21 %). Informed consents differed significantly between laboratories ranging from basic information about genetic testing and possible results to information about insurance, genetic counseling and familial testing, and incidental findings.Our findings suggest that it is important to consider the range of genes offered on epilepsy panels and their predicted phenotypes in an effort toward improving the informed consent process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Chambers
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, PO Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics (Division of Genetics and Metabolism), University of Virginia, PO Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Laura A Jansen
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, PO Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Radhika Dhamija
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, PO Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics (Division of Genetics and Metabolism), University of Virginia, PO Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Mehrian-Shai R, Reichardt JKV. Genomics is changing personal healthcare and medicine: the dawn of iPH (individualized preventive healthcare). Hum Genomics 2015; 9:29. [PMID: 26537019 PMCID: PMC4634796 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-015-0052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This opinion piece focuses on the convergence of information technology (IT) in the form of personal monitors, especially smart phones and possibly also smart watches, individual genomic information and preventive healthcare and medicine. This may benefit each one of us not only individually but also society as a whole through iPH (individualized preventive healthcare). This shift driven by genomic and other technologies may well also change the relationship between patient and physician by empowering the former but giving him/her also much more individual responsibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruty Mehrian-Shai
- Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Juergen K V Reichardt
- Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia. .,Present Address: Yachay Tech University, San Miguel de Urcuquí, Ecuador.
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Khan CM, Rini C, Bernhardt BA, Roberts JS, Christensen KD, Evans JP, Brothers KB, Roche MI, Berg JS, Henderson GE. How can psychological science inform research about genetic counseling for clinical genomic sequencing? J Genet Couns 2015; 24:193-204. [PMID: 25488723 PMCID: PMC4777349 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-014-9804-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Next generation genomic sequencing technologies (including whole genome or whole exome sequencing) are being increasingly applied to clinical care. Yet, the breadth and complexity of sequencing information raise questions about how best to communicate and return sequencing information to patients and families in ways that facilitate comprehension and optimal health decisions. Obtaining answers to such questions will require multidisciplinary research. In this paper, we focus on how psychological science research can address questions related to clinical genomic sequencing by explaining emotional, cognitive, and behavioral processes in response to different types of genomic sequencing information (e.g., diagnostic results and incidental findings). We highlight examples of psychological science that can be applied to genetic counseling research to inform the following questions: (1) What factors influence patients' and providers' informational needs for developing an accurate understanding of what genomic sequencing results do and do not mean?; (2) How and by whom should genomic sequencing results be communicated to patients and their family members?; and (3) How do patients and their families respond to uncertainties related to genomic information?
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M Khan
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 312 Rosenau Hall, CB#7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7440, USA,
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46
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Is it Time for Genomic Counseling? Retrofitting Genetic Counseling for the Era of Genomic Medicine. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40142-015-0068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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47
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Middleton A, Hall G, Patch C. Genetic counselors and Genomic Counseling in the United Kingdom. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2015; 3:79-83. [PMID: 25802877 PMCID: PMC4367079 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Middleton
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Georgina Hall
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), St. Mary's Hospital Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Christine Patch
- Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust London, United Kingdom ; Kings College London London, United Kingdom
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Formea CM, Nicholson WT, Vitek CR. An inter-professional approach to personalized medicine education: one institution's experience. Per Med 2015; 12:129-138. [PMID: 28413426 PMCID: PMC5391796 DOI: 10.2217/pme.14.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Personalized medicine offers the promise of better diagnoses, targeted therapies and individualized treatment plans. Pharmacogenomics is an integral component of personalized medicine; it aids in the prediction of an individual's response to medications. Despite growing public acceptance and emerging clinical evidence, this rapidly expanding field of medicine is slow to be adopted and utilized by healthcare providers, although many believe that they should be knowledgeable and able to apply pharmacogenomics in clinical practice. Institutional infrastructure must be built to support pharmacogenomic implementation. Multidisciplinary education for healthcare providers is a critical component for pharmacogenomics to achieve its full potential to optimize patient care. We describe our recent experience at the Mayo Clinic implementing pharmacogenomics education in a large, academic healthcare system facilitated by the Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Formea
- Hospital Pharmacy Services, Mary Brigh Building G-722, Mayo Clinic Hospital-St Marys Campus, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Wayne T Nicholson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic Hospital-St Marys Campus, 200 First Street, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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49
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Non-invasive prenatal testing: UK genetic counselors' experiences and perspectives. J Genet Couns 2014; 24:300-11. [PMID: 25315608 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-014-9765-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To date, NIPT in the UK has been predominately used in the health service for early sexing of pregnancies at known risk of sex-linked conditions. Developments in the technology are broadening its use to diagnostic testing for paternally inherited genetic conditions and for detection of aneuploidy. This study aimed to examine the experiences of UK genetic counselors with offering NIPT for sexing, and to explore their views on future uses of the technology. Twenty interviews with practicing GC's from four centres were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed using modified grounded theory. Participants all had experience of counseling patients around prenatal diagnosis and 18/20 had experience of offering NIPT. GCs reported initially feeling cautious about offering the test, although they saw it as a positive advance for their patients at genetic risk. Emphasis was placed on accuracy, adequate counseling provision and gatekeeping with concerns expressed about broadening its use in the routine antenatal setting. Findings indicate the genetics model for offering prenatal testing to high risk patients can incorporate NIPT and the profession may have a role in informing its implementation in wider healthcare settings. In a wider context this study highlights the challenges new technologies bring to genetic counselors' practice and service structure.
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50
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Joseph G, Guerra C. To worry or not to worry: breast cancer genetic counseling communication with low-income Latina immigrants. J Community Genet 2014; 6:63-76. [PMID: 25148879 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-014-0202-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this pilot study was to describe communication practices during hereditary breast cancer genetic counseling (GC) with low-income immigrant Latina patients in a public hospital setting. We utilized qualitative ethnographic methods, including direct observation of GC appointments with Latina patients at a public hospital offering free GC and BRCA testing and in-depth qualitative interviews with patients after they had received their BRCA genetic test results. Twenty-five patients participated; 20 were observed during genetic counseling appointments, and ten participated in interviews after BRCA testing with six participating in both observations and an interview. Analyses of qualitative data from observation field notes and interviews identified both strengths and limitations of current communication practices within the following themes: (1) family health history communication, (2) education regarding genes and genetics and patient information needs, (3) the purpose of the genetic test, (4) genetic test results and cancer risk, (5) building rapport and providing support, and (6) medical interpretation for monolingual Spanish speakers. As access to cancer GC expands in the public safety net settings and for the diverse populations they serve, it is critical to ensure effective communication in order for patients, whether or not they have a BRCA mutation, to understand the nature of their cancer risk and recommended methods of screening and prevention. Intervention strategies that address both structural constraints and patient-provider communication are needed to improve GC communication with immigrant Latinas, especially monolingual Spanish speakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galen Joseph
- Department of Anthropology, History and Social Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1450 Third Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA,
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