Opportunities for Hospital Librarians in the Era of Genomic Medicine

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate ways in which hospital librarians can help clinicians keep up with the rapid growth of genetic information and incorporate it into patient care as we enter the era of genomic medicine. SETTING: Hospital medical libraries DESCRIPTION: The fast-growing new field of genomic medicine applies human genetic information to the understanding and treatment of disease. Historically, evidence-based healthcare has been informed by studies on large populations. Breakthroughs in genetic analysis technologies are presenting healthcare providers with new opportunities to diagnose and customize clinical treatment based on the genetic structure of individual patients. In the hospital setting, access to genomic medicine information resources, clinical guidelines, and continuing education will be critical in the near future. This research paper will explore resources and programs that hospital librarians can offer to clinicians, to serve their genomic medicine information needs and help them navigate through unfamiliar territory.