Greenwood Genetic Center Launches Innovative ECHO Project to Empower Healthcare Providers with Genetic Expertise

Project aims to enhance access to genetic expertise statewide by bridging the knowledge gap between non-genetic providers and geneticists, fostering collaboration, and advancing patient care

Greenwood, SC – Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC), a distinguished nonprofit organization celebrating its 50th anniversary of advancing medical genetics and providing compassionate care for families affected by genetic diseases and birth defects, announces the launch of its ECHO project – an Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes. This unique initiative aims to provide ongoing, interactive education to non-genetics healthcare providers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate genetics into their medical practice.

The ECHO project stands out as a pioneering endeavor, offering a series of virtual sessions providing continuing medical education (CME) credits for healthcare providers through the Medical University of South Carolina Office of Continuing Education. Scheduled every other month, starting in May, the sessions will feature different GGC experts covering a variety of topics in medical genetics. The format includes multimedia presentations, case examples, and discussions, encouraging providers to actively participate and share their own cases.

Utilizing the Project ECHO model, known for creating virtual communities of learners through videoconference technology and case-based learning, GGC aims to enhance access to genetic expertise locally and statewide.

The first two sessions will cover fundamental aspects such as ordering genetic testing and making referrals, and gradually delve into specific genetic disorders. The goal is to bridge the knowledge gap for non-genetics providers and foster an environment of collaborative learning.

“The ECHO project is designed to offer non-genetics providers the opportunity to build their understanding of the role genetics plays in medical practice and patient care,” says GGC’s Director of Education, Leta Tribble, PhD. “Through interactive virtual presentations, Greenwood Genetic Center experts will expand providers’ knowledge of the genetic testing and counseling assistance we can provide, and, in this era of precision medicine, how connecting with our clinical team can improve patient care.”

As part of this innovative initiative, GGC also hints at the upcoming launch of its eConsults system, providing a glimpse into the future of asynchronous consultations with faster access to genetic services.

“This unique project will engage non-genetics healthcare providers to get them more comfortable ordering and interpreting genetic testing,” says GGC Physician Assistant, Wesley Patterson, PhD. “We are moving into an era of precision medicine where providers must take a genomic approach to patient care. As healthcare providers get more comfortable with genetic testing, they will utilize it more for patient care. In the end, it is all about increasing access to genetic services for all South Carolina residents.”

With the ECHO project, GGC is not only providing educational opportunities but also laying the foundation for enhanced collaboration and improved patient care through the integration of genetics into mainstream medical practice.

Interested healthcare providers can see the upcoming schedule and learn more at www.ggc.org/ECHO.