Preconception Genetic Counseling: Three Years of Experience at a Community-Based Health Center

In the United States, access to genetic education and services is not equally available to all segments of the population, especially to women of minority backgrounds and low incomes. In response to this issue, the Preconception Genetic Health Education Program (PGHEP) was implemented in September of 1993 at the Woodlawn Maternal and Child Health Center in south side Chicago. The goal of this program is to provide access to genetic services to a previously underserved population. Women attending the family planning clinics are offered free, confidential preconception genetic screening and counseling on-site. As of January 1, 1997, 1300 women have participated in the program. The development and implementation of the PGHEP, client self-reports of family histories and beliefs, and implications for future delivery of genetic services are discussed.