A nationally agreed cross-professional competency framework to facilitate genomic testing

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• Genomic testing is increasingly integrated into healthcare.
• Standardized competencies are needed for effective genomic test facilitation.
• Cross-professional consensus is crucial for a unified approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a nationally agreed, cross-professional competency framework for facilitating genomic tests.
• To define the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviors for this process.

Main Methods:

• Nominal group technique with 25 experts to develop an initial framework.
• Consensus meeting, voting, and public consultation with healthcare professionals and patient communities.
• Online survey evaluation with 239 healthcare professionals to assess adoption factors.

Main Results:

• Identified 8 core competencies required for facilitating genomic tests.
• Evaluation confirmed the framework addresses a timely need.
• Highlighted strategies to enhance awareness and accessibility for diverse professional groups.

Conclusions:

• The framework serves as a best practice guide for requesting genomic tests.
• It provides a foundation for identifying learning needs and structuring training.
• Competencies can evaluate consent facilitation to enhance responsible genomic medicine delivery.