A needs assessment study of genomics education for health educators

Background and purpose: The completion of the Human Genome Project has greatly increased advances in research on genomics. Health educators now have the responsibility of interpreting complex genomics information for their clients and conducting genomics-related education programs for lay communities. Given that past studies indicated that health educators possess insufficient genomic knowledge, genomic education for this particular group is needed. To ensure genomics education that is tailored to health educators' needs, this study sought to examine the genomic education and training needs for health educators. Methods: We conducted a Web-based survey with Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES) nationwide to examine their 1) previous training and education in genomics, 2) perceived need for genomic education, 3) desired genomics training topics, and 4) preferred delivery methods for genomics training and education. Results: Our preliminary findings showed that, although most health educators in this study had never received any training and education in genomics, the majority of participants were interested in receiving education on genomics. The three most frequently desired education topics were genomic disorders/diseases (73.1%); the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetics/genomics (69.2%); and genetic risk assessments (61.5%). Participants preferred to receive genomic training through continuing education (92%), Web-based training (76.9%), and articles in peer-reviewed journals (76.9%). Conclusions: Albeit most participating health educators had no genomic training, they expressed interest in receiving such training. To ensure the success of genomic training for health educators, future genomic education programs addressing this professional group's needs for topics and delivery methods are needed.