Consultagene: Pre- and Post-Pandemic Experience with a Web-based Platform and Remote Delivery of Genetic Services

Changes in genetics and genomics sequencing in recent years have created increased demand for genetics professionals, including clinical geneticists and genetic counselors. A significant workforce shortage of these professionals has become widely recognized. This shortage is driven by several factors, including the increased role of genetics in healthcare due to precision medicine initiatives and demand outside of medical practices in clinical and direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies that require genetics professionals for education and counseling. We developed the Consultagene virtual platform for delivery of genetic care, counseling, and education to address some of these issues that have become global challenges in the field of clinical genetics and to bridge existing gaps at the point of care. The platform provides access to specific content based upon the referral indication including educational videos and resource links, allows document sharing, health and history information gathering and appointment scheduling with persistent access to the materials via secure data infrastructure. Having the platform coupled with access to our tele- and video consultation service allows clients convenient on-demand access to genetic education and services as needed. This report describes the Consultagene platform development and use prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the identified strengths and weaknesses of such a platform, and the current applications in the new environment where telemedicine practice has rapidly expanded.