Nursing engagement in genetics and genomics: A developing country's perspective

Aim To review how nursing is engaged with genetics/genomics developments in the Philippines' healthcare system. Background There is an increasing demand for genetics services. However, the number of genetics professionals is lagging with this demand. Nurses play pivotal roles in mainstreaming genetics/genomics across healthcare settings. Sources of evidence Published and gray literature on genetics/genomics services in the Philippines and roles of nurses and the experiences of the authors. Discussion Nurses involved in genetics in the Philippines work in specialty genetics clinics and in newborn screening (NBS). Several issues hinder maximizing roles of nurses in genetics, such as the absence of competency standards, inadequate educational preparation, absence of a specialty organization, and increased workload of nurses. Conclusion The engagement of nursing with genetics/genomics is limited. Increasing awareness on the impact of nursing in genetics/genomics, adopting competency standards, and curricular integration are key if nurses' roles in genetic healthcare are to be realized. Implications for nursing practice Introducing genetics/genomics systematically in practice environments is crucial. Tools such as the Method for Introducing New Competency Genomics can be used as a guide. Existing population-based genetics programs such as NBS and rare disease offer a good context to introduce genetics in existing courses in the curriculum. Implications for nursing policy Nursing leaders need to be aware and recognize the relationship between nursing and genetics/genomics. A local specialty group in genetics and collaboration with international organizations are crucial to advocate the inclusion of genetics/genomics in nursing. Existing genetics/genomics competency standards can be validated in the local context to inform curricular integration.