Ryan Noss

CAPSTONE

Capstone Project Committee: Nancy Callanan, M.S., CGC, Gaurav Dave, M.D., MPH (Statistical Consultant), Susanne Haga, Ph.D., Rachel Mills, M.S., CGC

Recently, the use of predictive genomic testing (PGT) has increased; yet its impact on the field of genetic counseling is unclear. One concern is genetic counselors’ preparedness in addressing PGT concerns with patients. This study explored how PGT is being incorporated into genetic counseling programs and the perceptions of recent graduate about the adequacy this coverage. Graduates of ABGC accredited genetic counseling programs between the years 2008 and 2011 were surveyed to assess the extent to which PGT was incorporated in their training programs and the adequacy of this coverage. Chi square analysis was utilized to identify changes over time between the class of 2008 and 2011. Surveys from 126 graduates were analyzed. The majority of respondents indicated the incorporation of a wide array of aspects surrounding types of PGT, including full genome sequencing, GWAS, SNPs, pharmacogenomics, and DTC-based PGT in their genetic counseling curricula. There was a significant increase in PGT in the curricula between the classes of 2008 and 2011. Fewer graduates reported learning how to interpret PGT test results, how to discuss these results with patients, and how to identify clinical situations warranting PGT. In regards to adequacy of coverage, 80.6% of graduates felt their training prepared them for the ABGC board exam. Fewer graduates felt prepared to interpret PGT test results (60.2%) or identify clinical situations warranting testing (53.1%). Although the majority of respondents reported learning about a wide variety of aspects of PGT, some graduates indicated their training did not prepare them to interpret PGT test results, discuss these results with patients, and/or identify clinical situations warranting PGT. Efforts should be made to increase coverage of these aspects of PGT during genetic counseling training and through continuing education offerings.

Since Graduation

Since graduating in 2012, Ryan has been working as a clinical genetic counselor at the Cleveland Clinic. After a few years as a General/Pediatrics Genetic Counselor, he switched disciplines to Cancer Genetics. His primary clinical responsibility is staffing a busy, multi-disciplinary breast cancer clinic. Ryan is also actively involved in growing his department’s telegenetics offerings. Outside of clinical care, Ryan has been very active in education. He provides clinical supervision for genetic counseling students and fellows.

Ryan and his wife, Kara, celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary in December of 2020 and have two fantastic sons, Owen (age 4) and Barrett (age 1.5).