A key rationale for increasing diversity int he genetic counseling workforce is to improve support for patients from underrepresented backgrounds who can advance critical dialogue between genetic counselors and patients, whose health outcomes are often improved through interaction with medical profressionals they can relate to more personally. Unless genetic counseling becomes more accessible, existing disparities will be exacerbated. Addressing this issue will require integrated strategies, including expanding genetic research, improving genetic literacy, and enhancing access to genetic technologies and genetic counseling among underrepresented populations in a way that avoids stigmatization and other harms.
