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On Oct. 13, Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D., director of NIH's National Human Genome Research Institute, voiced his conviction that family physicians could play a key role in deciphering the mysteries of genetics and genomics for their patients (see story, page 1). Giving the keynote address at the joint AAFP Assembly/Wonca (World Organization of Family Doctors) world conference opening ceremony, Collins challenged FPs to learn more about genomics' powerful potential by tapping into educational resources now offered by various professional organizations, including the Academy.
Enter the AAFP's 2005 Annual Clinical Focus: Genomics.
In keeping with the cutting-edge topic, this will be the first ACF offered as a series of Web-based, curriculum-driven modules. The modules will use physician-patient vignettes and guided Web tours to answer questions about the role of genomics in practice. Each topic module will incorporate relevant evidence-based clinical guidelines or practice recommendations supported by evidence. At the conclusion of each module, learners will be asked to complete a clinical quiz to help them gauge what they've learned and to identify areas for further study.
Topics for modules under development include taking a family history and exploring the genetic components of breast and colon cancers, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer's disease. Future modules will cover, for example, single-gene disorders, newborn screening and developmental disorders.
It is expected that family physicians will play a major role in the future of medical genomics, particularly as it relates to preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic medicine. It will be important for physicians to be able to communicate accurately and effectively with patients and the public about the clinical, legal, social and ethical issues involved in this burgeoning area of medicine.
For more information about ACF 2005, visit http://www.aafp.org/acfgenomics.xml. Beginning in January, you'll be able to access the clinical modules at the site.
The 2005 ACF program on genomics is being made possible by the generous support and participation of the National Human Genome Research Institute; Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration; National Coalition for Health Professional Education in Genetics; GlaxoSmithKline; Roche; National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute; and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Other participating partners are the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Physician Assistants, American Cancer Society, American College of Medical Genetics, American College of Physicians, American Heart Association, American Society of Human Genetics, CDC, March of Dimes and National Society of Genetic Counselors Inc.
This list may change; additional supporters were still being sought at press time.
FP Report is
published by the AAFP News Department.
Copyright © 2004 by American Academy of Family Physicians.