Genetics Program

Description of Program

The rapid advances in understanding and technology are pushing the role of genetics into healthcare decisions.  As a member of the healthcare team, we are called upon to care, educate, and support our patients. Thus, a fundamental knowledge of the role of genetics is important to meet population health needs. The application of genomic science to healthcare in genetic testing and pharmacogenomics can raise ethical and legal consequences.   

Who should enroll in this program?

This independent study program is designed for English-speaking members of the healthcare team interested in the role of genetics in health.

Program Content

This program will review basic genetic concepts, when to refer, genetic testing methodology, and basics of variant interpretation.    

A textbook is not required for this program.

Program Schedule

This independent study is available at any time. The participant will choose when to start and finish the program.  The participants traditionally complete the program within four weeks.   

Learning Outcome

The participant will be able incorporate a basic understanding of genetics into their clinical practice.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this program, the participant will be able to:

1. recognize terminology in medical genetics
2. know when and where to refer patients to genetic specialist
3. distinguish genetic testing methodology
4. appreciate the role of pharmacogenomics to individualize drug choices
5. acknowledge the rapid advances of medical genetics impact on the diagnosis and treatment of patient conditions
6. reflect on the ethical and legal considerations related to medical genetics

Delivery of Content

The learner will view the recording via the internet and work independently through the content. The independent study provides an opportunity to learn while in the comfort of your own home and office.  Program staff are available during business hours by phone or email to assist participants with technical issues or concerns.  Questions regarding content can be directed to the contributors of the content. After the learner works through the content, she/he will complete the program evaluation. 

Note: Many businesses, especially government agencies or health institutions, utilize security firewalls.  Access to web links within program and communication from the instructor, or other students may be blocked. We recommend not using your work email address for this course.

Contact hours

1.5 contact hours

Criteria for Successful Completion

• Submit registration and payment
• Review the recording.
• Complete the program evaluation.

The certificate of completion will be contained in an email sent upon the completion of program evaluation.

Successful completion of this program does not guarantee expertise in the content. Clinical experience and judgment coupled with an understanding of the content are necessary to attain competency. Achieving certification is a means to demonstrate competency.

Faculty Names and Credentials

We strive to provide interprofessional education by utilizing a variety of content experts, instructors, contributors, and reviewers

Sharon Luu MGCS, LCGC, Genetic Counselor
Jane Swartz DNP, RN, ACNS-BC
Mary Ann Allen, MSN, RN, NPD-BC

Conflict of Interest

There is no conflict of interest for anyone in a position to control content for this activity.

Expiration date: March 30, 2023.

Accreditation Statements

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 1.5 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change. 

In support of improving patient care, University of Southern Indiana Center for Health Professions Lifelong Learning is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

State of Indiana
The University of Southern Indiana is an approved provider of continuing education for several professionals licensed in the state of Indiana, including social workers, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and dental professionals.

State of California
The University of Southern Indiana is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing. Provider #13378.