GGC develops one of the first genetics training programs for advanced practice providers
With a significant nationwide shortage of clinical geneticists alongside a growing demand for consultations, the field of medical genetics must adapt to meet the tremendous need and ensure access to all who need genetic services.
While technological initiatives such as GGC’s eVisits and eConsults are removing some barriers to access, the lack of providers remains a significant challenge.
To help address that need, GGC has launched one of the nation’s first fellowship programs in medical genetics and genomics for advanced practice providers (MGGAPP), such as physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs).
With generous funding from biotechnology company, Amgen, GGC’s first MGGAPP fellow, Justin Suarez, PA, began training this summer under the supervision of GGC’s first PA, Wesley Patterson, MSPA, PA-C, PhD. The 12-month program will prepare fellows to evaluate and treat genetic disorders in individuals of all ages.
“It’s practically unheard of in the APP fields to specialize in genetics,” said Suarez. “But genetics is the future of medicine. I want to be part of that process and help people in ways we never could before.”
Suarez first became interested in genetics during his undergraduate studies at Florida International University. During his PA training at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, he lobbied his professors for a rotation in medical genetics, but ultimately found the opportunity on his own. “I read an article written by Dr. Patterson about PAs in genetics. It seemed like he enjoyed teaching, and I’m grateful that he answered an email from a random student,” said Suarez. “I had a wonderful eye-opening rotation under his mentorship in November of 2024 and have not looked back since.”
Patterson, a PA who completed his PhD in Healthcare Genetics from Clemson University, is a passionate advocate for PAs in genetics and actively promotes the field through articles, presentations at PA conferences, and lectures for PA programs around the country.
“Many PAs are not aware that pursuing a specialty training in genetics is even an option,” said Patterson. “I’m pleased to share with other APPs, like Justin, the tremendous impact that we can have on patients and families with genetic disorders. We are in an era of genetics where testing options and treatments are really taking off. It’s an exciting time to be in genetics.”
Suarez, who graduated from the Wake Forest PA Program in 2025, is based in the Greenwood clinic and will also join in clinical visits at other GGC offices and through various specialty, multidisciplinary, and enrichment clinics. His training will also include rotations through GGC’s Diagnostic Laboratories, an original research project, and attendance at a national genetics meeting.
“By the end of the program, the MGGAPP Fellow will be capable of performing a comprehensive genetics evaluation, ordering appropriate genetic testing, interpreting reports, and delivering results to patients and family members,” added Patterson. “This is an exciting addition to our training program as we expand our workforce to better serve our patients.”
“I am grateful to GGC for allowing me to pursue what truly fascinates me,” added Suarez. “I’m proud to be associated with one of the most advanced genetics organizations in the US and am happily breaking the mold for APPs!”