Genetic Counsellor Awareness Day

Pictured: Dr Jodie Ingles, Laura Yeates and Charlotte Burns.

With the rapid rise and uptake of genetic tests for various diseases, there’s been a growing need for health professionals to accurately convey that information to patients and families, and provide the appropriate support. This is where Genetic Counsellors step-in.

You may have never heard of a Genetic Counsellor before, but they play a crucial role in various healthcare settings. They work in many areas of medicine, including cancer, prenatal, cardiology, neurology, infertility, paediatric and adult.

The Centenary Institute is lucky enough to have three Genetic Counsellors who work within our Molecular Cardiology Program: Laura Yeates, Dr Jodie Ingles and Charlotte Burns.

“Genetic Counsellors have specialised training in genetics and counselling, and play a vital role in helping individuals and families understand the impact of inherited conditions. We can provide support and guidance on whether genetic testing may or may not be right for you and help you make informed choices about your healthcare,” says Laura Yeates, who is also Chair of the Australian Society of Genetic Counsellors.

Today is Genetic Counsellor Awareness Day; the perfect opportunity to learn more about this essential profession.

For more information and answers to some frequent questions, please visit the Australasian Society of Genetic Counsellors website.