2023 ACMG Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting Digital Edition: Poster Gallery-Implementation of an Innovative, State-based Approach to Improving Access to Genetic Services

Pdf Summary

This article discusses the implementation and effectiveness of the Mountain States Regional Genetics Network (MSRGN) state team model, which aims to improve access to genetic services in eight states. The study utilized a prospective, multiple case study approach and included interviews with key stakeholders from each state team. The results indicated that access barriers, including cultural, geographic, workforce, and technology barriers, persist across states. The state teams prioritize addressing these barriers based on the needs of their populations and the available mechanisms for change. However, recruiting members from underserved communities, particularly clinicians, proved challenging. Additionally, there was no consensus on the amount of time and resources needed for the state teams' work. Cross-state interactions were viewed as valuable opportunities for sharing work and problem-solving together, and streamlining state team processes could improve efficiency. Overall, state team members found their work beneficial and responsive to state needs and believed that with consistent resourcing and a focus on showing impact, the state teams could be sustained in the long-term. These findings will help improve and refine the MSRGN state team model and guide future replication of the model in other regions. The study was supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as part of a $600,000 award.

Asset Subtitle

Co-Author - Deborah K. Niyongabo, PhD, MPH; Co-Author - Kristi Wees, MS; Co-Author - Cody Price, MPH; Co-Author - Kathryn Hassell, MD; Presenting Author - Janet A. Thomas, MD, FACMG; Co-Author - Jamie Stefanski, PT; Co-Author - Liza Creel, PhD;

Meta Tag

Public Patient and Professional Education

Policy Issues

Co-Author Liza Creel, PhD

Co-Author Jamie Stefanski, PT

Co-Author Kathryn Hassell, MD

Co-Author Cody Price, MPH

Co-Author Kristi Wees, MS

Co-Author Deborah K. Niyongabo, PhD, MPH

Presenting Author Janet A. Thomas, MD, FACMG

Keywords

Mountain States Regional Genetics Network

MSRGN

state team model

access to genetic services

prospective multiple case study

access barriers

cultural barriers

geographic barriers

workforce barriers

technology barriers