Current conditions in medical genetics practice

PURPOSE: This study of current conditions in medical genetics practice is designed to inform public policy development and present possible solutions for improving access to genetic services. METHODS: Using the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Member Directory, membership directories from regional collaborative partners, listservs from national partners, and social media, a 16-question survey was electronically distributed in 2015. RESULTS: The responses of 924 genetics professionals and related providers present a snapshot of current practice and an assessment of workforce needs. More than 92% of the respondents (837/910) are involved in clinical care. Among geneticists, 60% spend more than 51% of their time in clinical care. Geneticists reported an average of 10.2 new patients per week and 7.8 follow-up visits per week. More than 62% of geneticists said that their practices were nearly full; 9.4% said that they were not taking new patients. The survey identified more than 100 geneticists and 200 genetic counselor job vacancies. Fewer than 18% of respondents reported use of telemedicine. CONCLUSION: When compared with previously published workforce studies, these data show that wait times and average new patient caseloads have increased, while the number of geneticists has not.