e-learning in Genetics and Genomics

The NGEDC has identified that, in genetics and genomics, technology enhanced learning such as e-learning is the best medium for supporting the educational needs of health professionals with busy clinical schedules. Collaborating with a number of professional Colleges, Societies, higher educational institutes and other organisations we are developing a portfolio of e-learning modules. These modules are designed to enhance CPD such as the Genomics in Medicine module with BMJ learning or meet the requirements of curricula e.g. the Royal College of General Practitioners Curriculum statement 3.02 or in response to an identified educational need e.g. the National Patient Safety Agency alert on MCADD.

Modules currently available:

Genetics in Primary Care, in association with Royal College of General Practitioners - This is currently being updated to include genomics.

The Genetics in Primary Care module contains the following eight sessions:

• Why does genetics matter in primary care practice?
• Taking and drawing a genetic family history - Theory
• Taking and drawing a genetic family history - Practice
• Interpreting family histories and identifying patients: Part 1 Autosomal conditions
• Interpreting family histories and identifying patients: Part 2 Sex-linked conditions and conditions with variable patterns of inheritance
• Interpreting family histories and identifying patients: Part 3 Chromosome anomalies
• Talking genetics: Communicating genetic information
• Management and referral for patients with or at risk of genetic conditions

Genetics - What do I need to know to help the families in my care? - A module for Health Visitors, which is part of the Department of Health's Building Community Capacity programme

MCADD E-Learning Resource - For Midwives - 'Identification of pregnancies at risk of MCADD and post natal care of 'at risk' infants'

MCADD E-Learning Resource - For Dietitians - 'Dietary treatment of MCADD - an inherited metabolic disorder'

An e-learning tool for nurses and healthcare assistants - 'The future is in their history'

Two modules, listed below, for cardiologists and cardiac nurses which have been endorsed by the British Cardiovascular Society and are available via the BCS website. Two more modules are currently being completed.

• Communicating genetic information: underpinning principles and practical tips
• Taking and drawing a family history

A module on Free Fetal DNA for Genetic Services, Fetal Medicine and Midwives as part of the RAPID research project.

Modules under development

'The genomic era – how will clinicians need to adapt?'  Currently being developed with BMJ Learning.

'Genetics in Clinical Practice for Ophthalmology' in association with the Royal Society of Ophthalmologists.

'Genetics and Genomics in Dermatological Practice' - As part of the new e-learning curriculum for dermatologists.

Future modules in the planning phase

• A series of CPD modules for on genetics and genomics for midwives in association with the Royal College of Midwives

• ‘Dementia and Genetics what do health practitioners need to know?’ In association with the Alzheimer’s Society