Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance was well represented at the recent European Meeting on the Psychosocial Aspects of Genetics (EMPAG), part of the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) annual conference, in Barcelona, 21 to 24 May.
The Alliance’s Evaluation Program Manager, Melissa Martyn, presented at EMPAG on insights into the impact of genomics in practice for clinicians taking part in the Demonstration Project, while Clinical Program Manager, Elly Lynch, presented on the experiences of patients. Professor Sylvia Metcalfe, from Murdoch Childrens Research Institute and the University of Melbourne, joined with Elly Lynch in representing Australia at an EMPAG symposium focusing on Diversity and Genomics.
“With almost half of Victorians either born overseas or having at least one parent born overseas, cultural and linguistic diversity are clearly important issues for the Alliance to consider going forward,” said Sylvia. “Data from the Demonstration Project shows the wide variety of languages spoken by patients recruited for genomic sequencing.”
Ivan Macciocca, Principal Genetic Counsellor at VCGS and former Clinical Program Manager for Melbourne Genomics, presented on work done to develop the Alliance’s clinical consent form for exome testing, a form now being utilised by Melbourne Genomics and also by some member hospitals. Strong interest was generated in the Alliance's approach, and the clinical exome consent, information sheets and user guide have since been shared with some international groups.
“With more than 3,000 delegates attending from across the globe, ESHG offered a strong opportunity to spread the word about Melbourne Genomics’ work,” said Elly. “The Alliance’s presentations were well received, with much interest in the work being undertaken in Melbourne and Australia.”