Genetic counseling, virtual visits, and equity in the era of COVID-19 and beyond.
J Genet Couns
; 30(4): 1038-1045, 2021 08.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1320073
ABSTRACT
Overnight, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth rapidly transitioned from limited application to widespread implementation. The field of genetic counseling was well positioned to make this transition to virtual care since there is generally less of a need for patients to be seen in-person for physical exams or urgent care. Going forward, virtual visits will presumably become a mainstay in the provision of genetic services and it is anticipated that clinics will adopt "hybrid" models with both in-person and virtual visit options. This commentary highlights the successes and challenges in the rapid implementation of virtual visits, focusing on who has benefited versus who has been challenged or left behind. We also discuss genetic testing considerations, including the additional steps required for patients and clinicians when testing is ordered outside of the clinical setting, which can result in delays or a lack of testing altogether. Future research considerations are presented to address the needs among the most vulnerable and help ensure equitable access and benefit.
Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Telemedicine
/
Videoconferencing
/
Genetic Counseling
Type of study:
Observational study
/
Prognostic study
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
J Genet Couns
Journal subject:
Genetics, Medical
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Jgc4.1469
Similar
MEDLINE
...
LILACS
LIS