Genetic literacy is a critical prerequisite for appropriate care for patients with (possible) genetic disorders, and includes the literacy on basic concepts in human and medical genetics. Medical genetics is one of the fastest-developing medical specializations, and advances in the development of new, comprehensive genetic and genomic testing methods are becoming increasingly integrated into various parts of medicine. Unfortunately, the advances have not been accompanied by an adequate level of genetic literacy in medical students, non-genetic health professionals involved in the care of patients with (possible) genetic disorders, as well as general public, including patients. Consequently, the demands for appropriate, needs-based genetic education on all levels are increasing.
The focus of this Research Topic includes:
• the state of the current level of genetic literacy among medical students, non-genetic health professionals, patients and general public
• current state of activities and options for genetic education of medical students, medical geneticists, non-genetic health professionals, patients and general public
• new options for professional education of genetic counsellors
• needs and possibilities of genetic education for patients with rare diseases
• future directions for increasing the level of genetic literacy in medical students, non-genetic health professionals, patients and general public
We welcome Original Research articles, Systematic Reviews, Methods, Reviews, Mini Reviews, Policy and Practice Reviews, Perspectives and Opinions.
Genetic literacy is a critical prerequisite for appropriate care for patients with (possible) genetic disorders, and includes the literacy on basic concepts in human and medical genetics. Medical genetics is one of the fastest-developing medical specializations, and advances in the development of new, comprehensive genetic and genomic testing methods are becoming increasingly integrated into various parts of medicine. Unfortunately, the advances have not been accompanied by an adequate level of genetic literacy in medical students, non-genetic health professionals involved in the care of patients with (possible) genetic disorders, as well as general public, including patients. Consequently, the demands for appropriate, needs-based genetic education on all levels are increasing.
The focus of this Research Topic includes:
• the state of the current level of genetic literacy among medical students, non-genetic health professionals, patients and general public
• current state of activities and options for genetic education of medical students, medical geneticists, non-genetic health professionals, patients and general public
• new options for professional education of genetic counsellors
• needs and possibilities of genetic education for patients with rare diseases
• future directions for increasing the level of genetic literacy in medical students, non-genetic health professionals, patients and general public
We welcome Original Research articles, Systematic Reviews, Methods, Reviews, Mini Reviews, Policy and Practice Reviews, Perspectives and Opinions.
