Practice nurses and the business of genetics: Referrals to genetics services from primary care and the role of the practice nurse

With an improved understanding of how genes influence health and disease and the increasing incorporation of genomic technologies within healthcare delivery, there is now a signficant body of evidence supporting the need for genetic competence across the nursing profession (1). In addition, data indicates that internationally the current provision of genetics education during pre - and post-qualification training is patchy (1,2). In order to support practitioners effectively in becoming more confident and competent at applying genetics to practice it is imperative that their needs are identified.