A step forward in genetic counselling: defining practice and ethics through the Genetic Counselling Practice Consortium in Hong Kong.

Abstract

Genetic counselling plays a crucial role in the genomic era, assisting in disease risk determination, diagnosis and management. The lack of an accredited local training program for genetic counselling in Hong Kong has led to pragmatic on-the-job training and diverse practice models. In view of the needs for enhanced awareness in genomic counselling practices among healthcare professionals, a collaborative effort - the Hong Kong Genetic Counselling Practice Consortium - was initiated to develop genomic medicine in Hong Kong. A thematic analysis of genetic counselling practice across 15 regions was conducted, revealing a broad consistency in the scope of duties, with minor differences due to social and cultural influences. Genetic counsellors generally follow a similar protocol, but some approaches vary. Ethical considerations for genetic counsellors are discussed, highlighting their responsibility towards themselves, colleagues, clients, and society. The scope of practice and code of ethics were developed to highlight the key areas of practice duties; guide the conduct of genetic counsellors; and support local counsellors in their professional training, ultimately contributing to the advancement of genomic science and health benefit of the people of Hong Kong.