Assessing the Role of Fertility Clinics in the Provision of Genetic Counseling Services

Abstract

The role of genetic counseling in the assisted reproductive technology setting has expanded alongside advances in genetics knowledge and technology. Previous research about this role has focused on specific areas such as preimplantation genetic testing, donor risk assessment, and genetic counselor experiences. To date, however, no studies have broadly assessed current practices of fertility clinics with regard to providing genetic counseling services for their patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role that these clinics play in connecting their patients with genetic counseling services. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving distribution of an online survey to 410 fertility clinics in the United States and interviews with 12 survey participants for additional insight. Sixty-five clinics completed the survey. Eighty percent of clinics reported that they do not employ a genetic counselor, and participants indicated that they rely upon other fertility professionals within the clinic to provide genetic counseling services to some extent, along with genetic counselors outside the clinic. Reported barriers to genetic counseling services included lack of time and knowledge of non-genetics professionals, genetic counselor accessibility issues, and burdens placed upon patients. Findings from this study may inform further research in this area and efforts to overcome identified challenges in order to improve the experiences of clinics and patients alike.