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Genetics is revolutionizing the world of
medicine by offering new ways to dramatically improve diagnosis
and care. But because it reveals levels of information on
an individual's makeup, it raises issues and poses dilemmas
that are equally unprecedented in medicine.
The revelations from genetic tests can generate perplexing
questions, lead to misconceptions and fears, and touch deep
emotions. Inheritance patterns within a family can be complex.
Balancing the data from gene tests with a patients full circumstances
can be overwhelming. All these issues need to be dealt with
professionally.
The profession of genetic counselors was created to meet
these needs.
Who Are Genetic Counselors?
Genetic counselors are trained health professionals with
graduate degrees and experience in both medical genetics and
counseling. Most enter the field from a variety of disciplines,
including biology, genetics, nursing, psychology, public health
and social work. They advise individuals, but since genetics
involves inherited traits, they often advise whole families.
Genetic counselors are not physicians. They work along side
doctors, providing information, advice, and support to families.
For example, genetic counselors advise families about birth
defects or genetic disorders, or to families who may be at
risk for any number of inherited diseases. They can analyze
inheritance patterns within the family, assess risks of recurrence,
help determine which family members may be at risk and need
testing, help interpret test results, and review available
options. The decisions the family faces may involve pregnancy,
marriage, and preventative treatment for disease.
Genetic counselors are a bridge between the medical facts
and the emotional needs of the family. They provide supportive
counseling, serve as patient advocates, and refer individuals
and families to additional support services. They are educators
and resource people to other healthcare professionals and
the general public. But their primary concern is helping the
patient interpret unnerving and complex data, reach the best
decision, and cope with circumstances beyond their control.
More Information
Where to find genetic counselors? The
National Association of Genetic Counselors is the best
place to start.
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