The role of the Genetic Counsellor in the multidisciplinary team: the perception of geneticists in Europe

Genetics has begun to be considered a key medical discipline which can have an impact on everyday clinical practice. Therefore, it is necessary to understand what the most effective way is of caring for people affected by or at risk of genetic disorders. In this context, the team dealing with such patients has evolved with the emergence of the Genetic Counsellor figure. The profession of Genetic Counsellor appeared in Europe in 1980, but it is still a much-debated profession and not yet recognized in all European countries. The aim of this research is to investigate both how a team should be composed in the care of patients affected by or at risk of genetic disorders and what the role of the Genetic Counsellor should be—the field of action and the competences. The research has been carried out at the European level, submitting an online questionnaire to geneticists who, having the ultimate responsibility for the diagnosis and being in the field for the longest time, expressing their opinion, can identify strengths and potential areas for improvement in genetic care. 200 responses were collected from all over Europe. This led to awareness of the importance of the role of the counsellor within the medical genetics multidisciplinary team, and, above all, what the counsellor’s skills and qualifications should be—for geneticists. Although this new profession has difficulties in being recognized in some countries, it seems clear that these highly competent professionals are essential for in-patient care and in the multidisciplinary team.