Telegenetics and other care models

Abstract Advances in human genomics and genetics are revolutionizing healthcare and ushering in a new era of genetic information-based precision or personalized medical care. Despite a growing need for genetic testing and clinical and medical genetic services, there is currently a shortage of genetics professionals to support the appropriate acquisition and application of genetic information for patient care. Additionally, genetic providers are geographically maldistributed, as the vast majority is located in academic medical centers in urban and suburban locales. One approach to increase access is by the incorporation of telehealth (TH) services. While the advantages of TH are well established in other medical specialties, the uptake of such services among providers of medical genetics continues to evolve. Here, we will review various examples of telegenetics for adult patients, the delivery and regulation in the United States, and growing opportunities for the implementation of telegenetics to help address the shortage of genetics professionals and reduce the barriers to patients receiving clinical genetics and genetic counseling services in personalized precision and preventive health care.