Today is Genetic Counsellor Awareness Day (GCAD). Celebrated internationally and locally, GCAD is a chance to raise awareness about the profession and the valuable role genetic counsellors play in healthcare.
You can come to our stall at Monash Medical Centre from 3-5pm today (10 November) to speak to one of our genetic counsellors in person! (Ps. there will be chocolate!)
What does a genetic counsellor do?
Genetic counselling is a rapidly evolving, dynamic allied health profession. Genetic counsellors work in many areas of healthcare, including cancer, pregnancy, cardiology, neurology, infertility, paediatric, and adult medicine. Many work directly with patients in various healthcare settings, while others do research or work in education, public health, academia, laboratories, or in industry settings.
Why would someone see a genetic counsellor?
People with and without a family history of a medical condition may decide to pursue genetic testing for a number of reasons. Genetics can be a tricky concept to understand, and having a genetic counsellor by your side can help to:
- Provide expert advice in genetics and genomics
- Explain genetic testing options and results
- Help patients make informed decision
- Support patients and families to adapt to genetic information
- Studies have shown that after genetic counselling, patients experience:
- Increased knowledge of complicated genomic/genetic information and how it relates to their personal situation
- Increased empowerment and perceived personal control
- Improved risk perception accuracy
- Positive health behaviours
- Decreased anxiety and decisional regret
Want to know more?
The Australasian Society of Genetic Counsellors (ASGC) has all the answers to your Frequently Asked Questions here.
You can also learn more about the role of a genetic counsellor here.
You can find out more about Genetics at Monash Health, as well as our referral guidelines here
Approved by Danielle Ryan