Genetic Counselors & Science Communication

Are genetic counselors good science communicators? Sometimes- definitely with their patients but maybe not always with their friends, acquaintances, or everyday people. However, all genetic counselors have the experience, tools and capability to be GREAT science communicators.

Science communication refers to the practice of sharing scientific information, discoveries and ideas with audiences outside of the scientific community. So us “experts” talking to the “general public”. But what makes great communication is that the way the information is shared is clear, accurate and engaging.

Genetic counselors have the ability to make complex information understandable AND relevant which is why all of us are needed in science communication. And honestly, now more than ever. The goal is to make our communications about genetics and precision medicine effective is to balance accuracy with accessibility. Genetic counselors have the emotional skills and empathy to understand the audience’s needs and values.

This is why I started the All Access DNA podcast- to inform people about genomic health using storytelling and real-world connections to help the audience understand why genetics matters.

So while we may all be great at communicating with our patients or other healthcare providers, genetic counselors may need more training or experience in Science Communication to more general audiences. I’ve been on a deep dive in this space over the last few years although every step of my career has enhanced my passion for breaking out of genetic exceptionalism and talking to people about genetics in a way that makes sense for them. I’ll be posting more on the topic of genetic counseling and science communication over the next few months, and I hope you will add your thoughts and experiences.

In what ways have you been a Science Communicator to audiences outside the patient experience?