Innovative Models to Expand Access to Cardiac Genetic Counseling: Emily Brown, MGC, CGC

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"The main goal of the session was for us to figure out ways we can share different tools and ideas that different clinics have tried to increase access to genetic counseling and genetic testing. We all know there’s a limited number of genetics clinics in the country. Often there’s a long wait time to see a genetic counselor and/or a geneticist."

At the 44th National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) Annual Conference, held November 6-10, 2025, in Seattle, Washington, a session examined the current challenges and emerging solutions in cardiovascular genetic counseling and testing. Moderated by Emily Brown, MGC, CGC, the session featured presentations from Lisa Castillo, MS, CGC; Susan Christian, MSc, PhD, CGC; Monisha Kisling, MS, CGC; Carol Ko, MS, CGC; Christina Rigelsky, MS, CGC; and Amy Shikany, MS, CGC, with coordination by Allison Cirino, MS, CGC. Speakers described evidence of underutilization and inequitable access to cardiac genetic services as well as outlined innovative referral pathways and care delivery models designed to address these gaps.

The panel of experts discussed approaches aimed at improving patient identification, referral efficiency, and access to cardiogenetic testing, while supporting genetic counselors in practicing at the top of their scope. Topics included novel outpatient service delivery models across pre- and postnatal settings, strategies to promote more equitable referral practices, and considerations for developing and refining these models in different institutional contexts. Collectively, the session highlighted practical frameworks for increasing efficiency and access to cardiovascular genetic services without compromising quality of care.

In a follow-up interview with our sister publication CGTLive®, Brown, a genetic counselor at Johns Hopkins Hospital, expanded on the session’s discussions, highlighting how cardiac genetics clinics across the United States and Canada are putting these innovative strategies into practice. She described a variety of models, including telemedicine-based counseling, testing-first workflows, genetic counselor–only clinics, and large-scale educational webinars. She noted that these approaches are designed to reduce wait times, improve operational efficiency, and reach underserved populations without necessitating additional staff.

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REFERENCES
1. Brown E, et al. Innovative Strategies to Improve Access to Cardiogenetic Testing. Presented at: 2025 NSGC Annual Conference; November 6-10; Seattle, Washington.