An innovative clinical trial, known as ACCESS-GC, is underway in British Columbia to explore the integration of genetic counselors into primary care settings. Led by Dr. Jehannine (J9) Austin at the University of British Columbia, the project aims to address health inequities and transform patient care through precision medicine by providing personalized genetic services directly within communities.
Addressing Healthcare Demands with Personalized Genetic Care
As British Columbia faces the challenges of an aging population and increasingly complex health needs, primary care providers, particularly family physicians, are at the forefront of patient care. However, many physicians report feeling unprepared to incorporate emerging genetic technologies, such as genomic sequencing and pharmacogenomic testing, into their practices. The ACCESS-GC trial seeks to bridge this gap by embedding genetic counselors (GCs) into family physician clinics, creating a team-based model designed to deliver enhanced, personalized care.
Streamlining Care and Improving Outcomes
"By embedding genetic counselors directly into family practices, we can streamline care and improve outcomes for the patients who need it most," says Dr. Austin. "This model can potentially redefine how genetic services are delivered across BC and beyond."
Traditionally, genetic counselors, who are specialists in clinical genetics, are based in urban hospitals or specialized tertiary care centers. These services often experience long wait times and access barriers, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The ACCESS-GC trial is designed to address these inequities by integrating genetic expertise into primary care, providing more timely and equitable access to precision medicine.
Trial Scope and Evaluation
Funded by Genome BC, the trial will assess the effectiveness of this integrated approach for patients with conditions that have a genetic component, ranging from rare diseases to common, complex conditions like diabetes and psychiatric disorders. In addition to improving patient health, the trial will evaluate the economic and systemic benefits of embedding genetic counselors in primary care, offering a potential roadmap for future healthcare models.
Genome BC's Commitment
"Genome BC is committed to driving innovations that tackle real-world healthcare challenges," says Dr. Federica Di Palma, Genome BC’s chief scientific officer and VP of research and innovation. "The ACCESS-GC trial is a crucial step toward ensuring that all British Columbians have access to cutting-edge genetic care, regardless of where they live or the complexity of their health needs."
As healthcare moves toward a more personalized approach, the ACCESS-GC trial is poised to play a key role in making precision medicine more accessible and equitable for all British Columbians.
