An audit of cardiac genetic testing costs in a regional genetics unit

Abstract

can be problematic. We therefore trialled a ‘virtual’ clinic model, where a team comprising a Cardiologist, Geneticist, Genetic Counsellor, Senior Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics, and Forensic Pathologist meet monthly to review cases referred for cardiac genetic testing. The discursive format promotes rapid education of all involved, but functions effectively to provide uniform recommendations and support for families and referrers. Three months in, every case referred for cardiac genetic advice is reviewed by this service. Telehealth facilities allow the provision of first hand genetic advice by the team to outreach areas, while ongoing cardiac phenotyping, surveillance and treatment remain with the referring cardiologist. This process has allowed us to rapidly identify issues to be addressed before a face-to-face clinic is established, but also the unique strengths of this team which includes considerable experience in Cancer Genetics, a very similar field. This is a flexible and useful model for emerging services in similar regional areas.