Embrace Genomics

Genetics and genomics have become increasingly important in research and medicine. The understanding of the genetic contribution to disease is quickly expanding from rare disease to common disease, making genetics and genomics relevant to all. We endorse that all levels of the research and clinical workforce should have fundamental knowledge and skills in genetics and genomics and understand its role in public health. These steps are necessary to boost enrollment in research and effectively incorporate genetics and genomics into healthcare. To achieve this goal, we will develop genomics educational modules (GEMs) for the entry-level medical and research workforce. These modules will build on our recent experience developing and delivering an online Genetic Assistant Training Program (GATP) to over 300 successful graduates. Using participant feedback from the GATP and input from a carefully selected Advisory Committee of educators and employers, we will develop GEM content based on the most update to genomics information, best practices, and workforce needs. The content of these modules will be devoted to the following topics: Genetics & Genomics of Cardiovascular Conditions, Cancer, Reproductive Healthcare, Newborn Health, Child Health, Laboratory Genomics, and Responsible Conduct of Research. Educational content will include slide decks, recorded lectures, lab protocols, and assessments. We will incorporate animations in education modules to boost engagement and use the educational principles of adult learning theory and universal design for learning to maximize the educational impact. We will pilot and refine existing and new GEMs targeted to students in entry-level training programs at three local partner sites that offer courses for laboratory associates, medical assistants, and community health workers. These sites include Baltimore’s BioTechnical Institute (BTI), the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) Medical Assistant training program, and the Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) Healthcare Workforce Development Program. These sites were selected given that they have established entry-level training programs, their programs include multiple professions that span both laboratory and clinical positions, and train individuals that are likely to be hired by the multitude of local research and medical institutions and companies. Ultimately, we will disseminate the GEMs at no cost on an easily accessible website with the capability to be downloaded and used both nationally and internationally.