Projecting the Supply and Demand for Certified Genetic Counselors: a Workforce Study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Workforce Studies
• Genetic Counseling
• Medical Genetics

Background:

• The number of certified genetic counselors (CGC) and training programs in North America is growing.
• Demand for genetic counselors, particularly in direct patient care, is increasing significantly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To project the supply and demand for CGCs in North America through 2026.
• To identify potential workforce shortages or surpluses in the field of genetic counseling.

Main Methods:

• A formal workforce study was commissioned by key genetic counseling organizations.
• The study analyzed current supply and projected future demand based on various growth scenarios.

Main Results:

• A shortage of genetic counselors in direct patient care was identified.
• Supply is projected to meet demand between 2024 and 2030 under current growth models.
• Rapid expansion of training programs could lead to earlier equilibrium.

Conclusions:

• The field of genetic counseling faces a growing demand that is projected to be met in the coming years.
• The rate of new training program development may influence the timeline for workforce equilibrium.
• Continued monitoring of workforce trends is essential for the genetic counseling profession.