Genetic Counselling Within a Multidisciplinary Team Setting
Traditionally genetic counsellors have practised under close supervision by a geneticist, except perhaps in the prenatal setting. However the role of the genetic counsellor has expanded considerably with practitioners participating in many multidisciplinary health care teams with minimal supervision from geneticists. A number of such teams exist in Queensland Health with important contributions being made by genetic counsellors. Presented here is an overview of the role of the genetic counsellor in multidisciplinary clinics organised to meet the needs of patients with a range of genetic conditions. Examples include Marfan syndrome, Epidermolysis Bullosa, and neural tube defects. In addition, a number of new collaborative clinics involving geneticists and other health care professionals are being trialled this year with possible future involvement by genetic counsellors. These will also be discussed.