Genetic counsellors are an internationally recognised group of highly skilled healthcare professionals with training and expertise in genomic medicine and counselling skills [1].
The United Kingdom (UK) leads in developing this profession and has established the gold standard for genetic counselling, which is emulated across Europe and other parts of the world. The delivery of genetic counselling in a clinical setting is supported by evidence, genetic counselling theory, and uses established, validated outcome measures to evaluate success. It has been demonstrated to be highly valued by patients. The number of genetic counsellors globally is approximately 7000, practicing in at least 28 countries. In the UK, there are approximately 300 genetic counsellors, with the vast majority practicing clinically in the publicly funded National Health Service.
The films were produced by Only Human co-founder Prof Anna Middleton, when she was the previous Chair of the Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors, the professional body that represents genetic counsellors in the UK.
The films were designed to offer information about the scope of what genetic counsellors do, which in turn offers insight into what happens within genomic medicine consultations, education and research.
“On behalf of the AGNC I am delighted to support the Only Human project and promote the work of genetic counsellors across the world. Engaging with public audiences, before they become patients, is pivotal in raising awareness about the implications of genomic medicine and ensuring that we are doing our best to reach everyone as best we can”
Roberta Rizzo, Chair of the Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors
[1] Middleton, A., Taverner, N., Moreton, N. et al. The genetic counsellor role in the United Kingdom. Eur J Hum Genet 31, 13–15 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41431-022-01212-9