The process of genetic counseling has changed dramatically over the past 25 years. Instead of being based on purely clinical findings, the identity of many disorders can be proven because their genic or chromosomal basis is known. However, it must not be overlooked that the availability of such tests also poses psychological and ethical questions which are difficult to resolve. The training of individuals competent to give genetic counseling has been formalized in a number of European countries, as was done in the United States and Canada a number of years ago through their respective Boards of Medical Genetics. As genetics has become a bona fide speciality in itself, with training programs developing for health professionals at various levels.
Most training is done in university medical genetics departments.
To provide both diagnostic, counseling and follow-up services, close ties must be established with such hospital departments as pediatrics and obstetrics and access to specialized diagnostic services and to medical library facilities is essential. DNA extraction and banking. Prenatal diagnostic services. The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. W.B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia.