Quality assurance in the clinical genetics setting-Report of a workshop

Participants in a panel discussion sponsored by thead hoc Quality Assurance Committee of the National Society of Genetic Counselors discuss early efforts to develop and implement quality assurance instruments at institutional, state, and regional levels. Uniform guidelines and self-assessment tools can help genetic counselors and clinical geneticists to provide the best possible care to individuals affected by genetic diseases. Further work will be needed to address aspects not covered here and to assure that guidelines allow for creative variation among professionals and centers. An interdisciplinary approach to such standard-setting is recommended.