Join our second #GenomicsConversation

This March, the GEP will host its second week of action designed to help health professionals feel comfortable talking about genomics

After the success of our first #GenomicsConversation last year, on Monday 4 March 2019 the Genomics Education Programme (GEP) will launch its second annual week of action, aimed at all health professionals.

The goal for the week is to spark a conversation among health professionals and increase familiarity with the word ‘genomics’ so they feel more comfortable discussing genomic testing with their patients as well as signposting to relevant information and services.

Co-ordinated activities

Throughout the week, various free activities will take place, including a panel event in Birmingham and the launch of new podcasts, online courses and educational resources. Each will be designed to raise awareness of the impact of genomics on patient care – particularly pertinent with the roll-out of the NHS Genomic Medicine Service.

A full calendar of events will shortly be available via our website and we will provide regular updates via social media – look out for us on Twitter and Facebook. There is also a downloadable package of social media resources available so you can add your support and kick-start your #GenomicsConversation with colleagues and patients.

Free-to-attend panel discussion

New to the #GenomicsConversation for 2019 is an evening panel discussion event ‘Talking Genomics with Patients’, taking place on Tuesday 5 March in Birmingham. The GEP has joined forces with Progress Educational Trust to bring together a lively, engaged panel of speakers who will be discussing the impact of genomic testing on their lives and their families’. We hope the event will bring the patient experience centre stage and provide health professionals with useful insights into how best to communicate genomics / genetic information.

Attendance is free, but advance booking is required. Book your place now by emailing sstarr@progress.org.uk.

In the meantime, if you would like to begin your genomics learning journey now, we have a wide range of free online courses, funded taught courses, and ‘just-in-time’ educational resources, all available via the GEP website.