Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS

Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS, an assistant professor at Geisinger Genomic Medicine Institute, discusses the challenges of implementing alternative delivery models for genetic counseling in prostate cancer.

The optimal genetic counseling approach may vary for men with prostate cancer, explains Rahm. For some, undergoing testing with a genetic counselor may be preferred while others may elect to have their oncologist or urologist perform the genetic test and follow-up with a genetic counselor later.

However, some institutions may not have the ability to offer in-person counseling, says Rahm. Instead, a telemedicine may be implemented if the healthcare system doesn’t have genetic counselors and assistants on site.

Harmonizing the outcomes for all those involved with genetic testing is an important step in understanding which delivery model works best in which clinical scenario, concludes Rahm.

Videos

Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS, discusses the challenges of implementing alternate delivery models for genetic counseling in prostate cancer.

Challenges of Implementing Alternative Delivery Models for Genetic Counseling in Prostate Cancer

Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS, discusses the challenges of implementing alternative delivery models for genetic counseling in prostate cancer.

Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS, an assistant professor at Geisinger Genomic Medicine Institute, discusses alternate delivery models for genetic counseling in prostate cancer.

Telehealth programs offer another option to provide genetic counseling to patients, says Rahm.

Additionally, genetic counseling assistants and non-genetics providers can alleviate some of the burden for genetic counselors who are overextended, explains Rahm. Often, the counseling pre-test can be conducted by a genetic counseling assistant or a non-genetics counselor, and then the genetic counselor will conduct the follow-up with the patient.

These alternate delivery models increase access to genetic counseling for patients, explains Rahm.

Improved access to genetic counseling ensures that guidelines are followed, and patients are tested. Moreover, increased testing will lead to comprehensive understanding of which men should receive genetic testing, concludes Rahm.

Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS, discusses alternate delivery models for genetic counseling in prostate cancer.

Author | Alanna K. Rahm, PhD, MS

Articles

Challenges of Implementing Alternative Delivery Models for Genetic Counseling in Prostate Cancer

Challenges of Implementing Alternative Delivery Models for Genetic Counseling in Prostate Cancer

Alternate Delivery Models for Genetic Counseling in Prostate Cancer