From helices to health: undergraduate medical education in genetics and genomics

Abstract

Rapid advances in genomic technologies combined with drastic reductions in cost and a growing number of clinical genomic tests are transforming medical practice. While enthusiasm about applications of precision medicine is high, the existing clinical genetics workforce is insufficient to meet present demands and will fall increasingly short as the use of genetic and genomic testing becomes more routine. To address this shortage, physicians in all areas of medicine will require genomic literacy. Undergraduate medical students, therefore, need a solid foundation in genetics and genomics so they can apply genomic medicine across a range of specialties. Here, we review the current trends and challenges in undergraduate medical genetics education in North America, highlight innovations and offer recommendations.