Transformation to telephonic genetic counselling during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: challenges and suggested protocol in Indian scenario

Abstract

Genetic counselling (GC) is a process of communicating and educating patients and/or their family members diagnosed with genetic abnormalities. Ideally, GC is offered in-person, physical presence of both the counselee and the counsellor. However, COVID-19 pandemic and new norms of social distancing precluded undertaking GCs. In the wake of this, Genetic Research Centre at ICMR-NIRRH, Mumbai, arranged virtual sessions for GC. Here, we describe our experience of initiating genetic counselling services on virtual platform. This report presents the challenges faced by the genetic counsellors as well as the counselees and suggests a protocol to be followed during tele-genetic counselling. It is based on the retrospective data of 65 cases that were counselled from July 2020 to September 2020 which was the period of lockdown and restriction. Although a few issues emerged during the process of GC, virtual tele-counselling was a preferred option due to social distancing, lack of public transport facilities and COVID-19 specific restrictions. Effective virtual follow ups saved time, energy and finances of providers as well as clients. This article presents providers’ experience of the process and some recommendations in Indian scenario.