UBC researchers are leading a new clinical trial to explore how integrating genetic counsellors into primary care settings could help address health inequities and transform patient care in British Columbia through precision medicine.
Led by Dr. Jehannine (J9) Austin, a professor of medical genetics and psychiatry at UBC’s faculty of medicine, the innovative project seeks to meet the growing demands on BC’s healthcare system by providing personalized genetic care directly within communities across BC.
As BC confronts the challenges of an aging population and increasingly complex health needs, primary care providers—especially family physicians—remain at the frontline of patient care. However, many physicians feel unprepared to incorporate emerging genetic technologies, such as genomic sequencing and pharmacogenomic testing, into their practices.
The ACCESS-GC trial seeks to close this gap by embedding genetic counsellors (GCs) into family physician clinics, creating a team-based model that delivers enhanced, personalized care.
“By embedding genetic counsellors 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 counsellors — specialists in clinical genetics — are based in urban hospitals or specialized tertiary care centers. Unfortunately, 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.
The trial, which is funded by Genome BC, 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 counsellors in primary care, offering a potential roadmap for future healthcare models.
“By embedding genetic counsellors directly into family practices, we can streamline care and improve outcomes for the patients who need it most.”
Dr. J9 Austin
“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.
A version of this story was originally published by Genome BC.