No Images? Click here We're back with more!Issue 2 Genomics for GPs is a monthly newsletter brought to you by CheckUP in collaboration with Queensland Genomics. It carries a range of resources on developments the field of genomics in primary care in both, the Australian as well as global context, along with updates on the ongoing Queensland Genomics project which you can follow by clicking the button below.GPs in Genomics"With an increase in public awareness in genomic medicine, the GP will often be the first health professional that patients with questions on genetic concerns will come to for advice. It is therefore imperative that general practitioners are aware of common genetically inherited disorders and how to assess and quantify genetic risk." Dr. Michael Hamilton Dr Mike works as a GP in the North Brisbane region, and as a GPLO since 2013. He has supported the development of GP referrals guidelines across a number of specialties and has worked with cardiology, respiratory and neurology services.He is currently a member of Genetic Health Queensland's Service Plan Steering Committee, and has contributed to the development of Clinical Prioritisation Criteria in general genetics and cancer genetics for referrals in Queensland. Discussing his views on genomics in primary care, Dr. Mike says, "Currently most genetic testing can only be requested by specialist geneticists but as the costs of testing reduce the GP may, in the future, be able to request simple genetic tests and therefore GPs will need to develop skills in the appropriate requesting and interpretation of genetic testing. Genomics promises a revolution in diagnosis and risk assessment. It is important that GPs respond to these challenges by upskilling their knowledge of genetics and genomics."
In his opinion GPs should try to upskill in genomics through understanding - • Patterns of inheritance and how to take a detailed family pedigree. • How to decide who to refer for specialist advice. • The genetic causes of developmental delay and behavioural disorders in children and adults. • Appropriate usage of genetic tests and interpretation of results. • Prenatal and new born screening. Upcoming Training in Queensland Training in genomics for Queensland's general practitioners are currently being organized by CheckUP in collaboration with Queensland Genomics, the training modules for which are being developed by key geneticists in Queensland Health, which will subsequently be accredited by the RACGP. In the meantime, you can follow this link to a simple quiz in genomics to gauge your need for undertaking the trainings.
Genomics in Queensland Genetic Health Queensland (GHQ) under Queensland Health comprises a team of specialist healthcare professionals providing state-wide clinical genetic services to patients and their families with suspected or known genetic health conditions. The GHQ website contains resources for both patients and health professionals on access to existing genetic services, key clinicians and clinical referral pathways, among others. International Developments in Genomics Human Genomics in Global Health is a World Health Organization (WHO) initiative which aims to raise awareness and provide information to individuals, organisations and governments on development and opportunities within the rapidly advancing field of clinical genomics. The WHO has also established Collaboration Centres in 6 developing countries across the world to collect information, apply technology, education and training to giving guidance on scientific, technical and policy issues in genomics. Resources for Clinicians The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) houses information on genomics and genetic testing for both consumers and clinicians. Current resources for clinicians and health professionals include information on genetic testing, guidelines on ordering and interpreting genetic tests, and principles in ethics and human rights on the translation of genomic research findings into practice.
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