Perspectives of Clinical Genetics in Wisconsin: A Qualitative Analysis to Enhance Awareness About the Specialty and Guide Improvement.

INTRODUCTION

Genomic advances have launched medicine into a new frontier of preventive and personalized care, driving increased demand for services amid a recognized provider shortage. We aimed to highlight perspectives of clinical geneticists to support growth and sustain genetics care for patients in Wisconsin in the face of rising demand.

METHODS

A literature review informed the development of interview questions for appreciative inquiry-guided interviews. University of Wisconsin-affiliated geneticists were interviewed in the summer of 2024 about their experiences and insights. Transcripts were analyzed using an open inductive process, and hierarchical qualitative analyses were conducted to identify themes and opportunities to increase interest in genetics as a career.

RESULTS

Regarding their profession, 92% of respondents identified "problem-solving" as a favorite aspect, highlighted the benefits of interprofessional collaboration, and identified diagnostic improvements as the most notable change over their careers. Regarding the future of genetics, 75% expressed excitement about improving treatments, anticipated a shift in their roles from diagnostics to management, and encouraged trainees across health professions to engage in genomic medicine learning opportunities.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical geneticists expressed strong enthusiasm for their careers, noting problem-solving, continuity of care, and patient diversity as key highlights. Their roles provide opportunities to lead interdisciplinary teams, collaborate across specialties, and engage in lifelong learning. Their experiences offer insight into future diagnostic and treatment advances, which will require innovative care delivery approaches, including greater delegation and expanded training for the broader health care workforce. These perspectives may help foster interest in clinical genetics among health care trainees.