What is Medical (or Clinical) Genetics?

Clinical or Medical Genetics is a relatively young, small speciality in the UK, which has grown steadily since the first Genetics Clinic began at Great Ormond Street Hospital in 1946. There are currently about 90 NHS Consultant Clinical Geneticists  working at 25 Regional Centres around the UK, supported by hundreds of paramedical and scientific professionals.

Due to scientific and technological advances and increasing public and professional awareness of genetic issues, Medical Genetics is rapidly gaining importance, and the need for substantial growth in staff numbers is being increasingly recognised at the highest levels.

How do I train for a career in Medical (Clinical) Genetics?

There are a range of skills needed to provide a comprehensive Medical or Clinical Genetics service. These are recognised by the four constitutive groups of the BSHG. Scientific staff either work in cytogenetics (represented by the ACC) or molecular and biochemical genetics (represented by the CMGS). These professions require a relevant University degree followed by further professional training and qualifications.

Genetic nurses are usually trained as general nurses or midwives prior to specialising in Medical Genetics. Genetic counsellors and associates, have a variety of backgrounds, but typically have either scientific or paramedical training. See the AGNC website for further details.

Clinical Geneticists are medical doctors, who specialise in diagnosing, advising about, and, in some instances, managing genetic conditions (represented by the CGS). The training required following medical school is laid down by the Joint Committee on Higher Medical Training (JCHMT). Briefly, it consists 3 to 5 years general professional training in General Medicine and/or Paediatrics (preferably both), and successful completion of a postgraduate diploma (usually MRCP or MRCPCH). This is followed by competitive entry into a 4 year Specialist Registrar training post in a Regional Genetics centre. Many people also take higher research degrees (M.D. or Ph.D.).

How do I find a Regional Genetics centre near me?

There are 25 Regional Genetics centres in the UK, situated in major hospitals in most of the large population centres. To find a centre near you, search our directory.

How do I join the British Society for Human Genetics?

Any professionals working in Medical Genetics as a clinician or scientist may join the BSHG. More details here.

What is the difference between 'Medical' and 'Clinical' genetics?

The terms are often used interchangeably - some departments are called 'Clinical Genetics' and others 'Medical Genetics'. Both deal with the application of the science of genetics to human beings' medical problems.

Some people however, recognise a distinction between the terms, using 'medical genetics' to refer to those aspects carried out exclusively by medical doctors (such as diagnosis), and 'clinical genetics' to refer to aspects also carried out by non-medical clinical staff (such as genetic counselling).

The Royal College of Physicians, which oversees the training of medical specialists (doctors), refers to the speciality as 'Clinical Genetics', and specialist physicians as 'Clinical Geneticists'.