Ep. 151: What Does A Genetic Counsellor Do?
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from left to right: genetic counsellor Justin Lorentz, clinical director of genetics Jessica Gu, director of clinical innovation Allison Hazell
Genetic technology is advancing quickly, and the information in our DNA will continue to grow more important to promoting human health and wellbeing in the decades to come. Genetic counsellors help people to understand the implications of the information locked in their genes. Counsellors can provide guidance on which genetic tests may be appropriate, and, once test results are in, they help the subject understand the meaning of the results. In this episode, Medcan genetic counsellors demystify some of the most common questions involving genetics and wellness, such as, what’s the difference between clinical and consumer-grade genetic testing? Featuring Medcan director of clinical innovation Allison Hazell (right), clinical director of genetics Jessica Gu (centre), and genetic counsellor Justin Lorentz (left).
LINKS
Learn more about Medcan’s Genomic Health Assessment.
To arrange a conversation with someone from Medcan about whether you’re an appropriate fit for the Genomic Health Assessment, including whole genome sequencing, click here or email genetics@medcan.com.
Listen to episode 109: Whole Genome Sequencing & Precision Medicine, featuring Allison Hazell and Medcan’ CEO Shaun Francis
Scientists sequenced the first complete human genome in 2003. Here’s a timeline of major advances in genetics.
Learn more about How Genetic Genealogy Helped Catch the Golden State Killer in this Forbes article by JV Chamary.
Read this article in The Guardian: Designer babies: an ethical horror waiting to happen? By Philip Ball
Learn more about Lorentz’s mentor, genetics counsellor, Kathleen Buckley who was winner of the 2016 Genome Genius award
Learn more about Hazell’s mentor, former Medcan director of genetics, Jill Davies
INSIGHTS
Meet director of clinical innovation Allison Hazell, director of genetics Jessica Gu and genetic counsellor Justin Lorentz. [2:29]
What exactly is a genetic counsellor? [3:34]
How does one become a genetic counsellor, and why is the field of genetic counsellor so competitive ? [6:03]
Hazell, Gu and Lorentz chat about the most common misconceptions they’ve heard about genetics. [8:22]
What is the difference between diagnostic testing and screening, and why is that difference important for genetic counselling? [10:34]
Is anyone who does genetic testing at risk for being linked to a crime? Where will my genetic information go if I do a genetic test? [13:10]
Do genetic counsellors make designer babies? [18:26]
What’s the difference between a recreational test like 23AndMe, or a clinical test that’s done at Medcan? [21:38]
What’s so special about being a genetic counsellor? Plus, hear about the genetic team’s role models. [25:36]
*LEGAL
This podcast episode is intended to provide general information about health and wellness only and is not designed, or intended to constitute, or be used as a substitute for, medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. You should always talk to your Medcan health care provider for individual medical advice, diagnosis and treatment, including your specific health and wellness needs.
The podcast is based on the information available at the time of preparation and is only accurate and current as of that date. Source information and recommendations are subject to change based on scientific evidence as it evolves over time. Medcan is not responsible for future changes or updates to the information and recommendations, and assumes no obligation to update based on future developments.
Reference to, or mention of, specific treatments or therapies, does not constitute or imply a recommendation or endorsement. The links provided within the associated document are to assist the reader with the specific information highlighted. Any third-party links are not endorsed by Medcan.