The framework
This competency framework outlines the core competencies required to communicate germline genomic test results in the NHS. The GEP has developed this framework in collaboration with healthcare professionals from across the health service, as well as input from patient communities. Each competency is provided with links to supporting evidence-based references and educational resources.
Importantly, the individual competencies in this framework should be interpreted by healthcare professionals considering their individual scope of practice. Not all competencies, or parts of a competency, will be applicable for all healthcare professionals, or in all clinical situations or settings. This framework has been designed to be a developmental tool to support individuals and organisations. It is not intended to be used as a grading or an assessment tool.
For more information about the framework, how it was developed, and how it can be used, please see the FAQs.
Key stages in the results pathway
As part of the development process for this competency framework, the contributors identified six stages in the process of returning genomic results where healthcare professionals are involved. This is outlined in the infographic (click on the image to view full screen).
The scope of this current framework is focused on stage four, for healthcare professionals responsible for communicating genomic results to patients and family members.
The competencies
This framework identifies six areas of proficiency for healthcare professionals responsible for communicating germline genomic test results in the NHS – see below. You can also access this handy printable list of the competencies.
In order to demonstrate the potential use of this framework across a range of tests and areas of practice, the competencies have been mapped against a matrix, outlining three broad levels based on the type of genomic tests and associated competencies required. An asterisk (*) is used below to indicate where a competency has further information to describe competence in the different levels. You can access the full competency framework mapped to these levels here.
General resources
In addition to the links to supporting resources listed for each competency above, there are some general resources that you may find helpful and relevant to gaining competency across many areas of this framework.
Resources for educators
Those delivering healthcare education around genomic testing may find these resources useful. Clinical leaders and educators may also find it helpful to develop training based around one of the three levels outlined in the framework based on the type of genomic test, although it is important to note that individuals within each level will have varying levels of experience.
Frequently
asked questions
What is the framework?
The framework has been designed as a cross-professional guide for best practice for any clinician communicating germline genomic test results to patients and family members. Results may be from a variety of tests and contexts, including whole genome sequencing, microarray or single gene tests for diagnostic, carrier or predictive testing purposes. Conversations about genomic test results may be led by different individuals depending on the context of the test and clinical pathway. It is therefore imperative that professional judgement based on an individual’s scope of practice is considered when reflecting on these competencies.
Professional competencies that are already expected to be part of clinical practice have not been included within this framework (such as patient communication skills). As well, this framework includes, but is not limited to, existing competencies for genomic specialists (such as consultant clinical geneticists, genetic counsellors).
How can this framework be used?
This framework has been designed to be a developmental tool to support individuals and organisations. It is not intended to be used as a grading or assessment tool.
It can be used as a guide for individual healthcare professionals to identify learning needs. Team managers may find this useful as part of training for new staff, and/or to ensure that staff can achieve competency for requirements of their role. For educators and trainers, the framework provides a mechanism to identify the training needs of healthcare professional groups, and to structure the development of training. This framework will also guide the development of future tools made by the GEP to support the NHS workforce.
Case studies will also be published, reflecting how the competency framework has been used in practice.
How was the framework developed?
The framework was developed via a consensus approach based on the nominal group technique. Throughout 2019 and 2020, meetings took place with a range of stakeholders, including healthcare professionals in various disciplines. This included reviewing clinical scenarios in iterative rounds, mapping themes and voting on areas of inconsistency.
A revised framework was open for consultation with individual healthcare professionals and professional bodies in March and April 2021. Feedback was also gained from rare disease and cancer patient communities via the Genomics England Participant Panel, Genetic Alliance UK and Unique, to ensure that the patient narrative was incorporated into discussions about genomic test results.
How can I give feedback on the framework?
The framework will guide the development of future tools and resources developed by the Genomics Education Programme, and it is anticipated that it will be reviewed on a regular basis.
We would be grateful for your feedback on this framework and how you have used it in practice. You can submit your comments via this feedback form.
If you have any questions about the framework and how it was developed, please contact us.
