Globalization of Genetic Counseling

Abstract The genetic counseling profession is spreading globally, with countries in various stages of creating and implementing training programs, vetting the sustainability of these programs, and developing nationwide identities for genetic counselors as healthcare professionals. This chapter describes the global landscape of the genetic counseling field’s professional development and highlights the availability of genetic counseling training programs and credentialing through government and professional bodies worldwide. This chapter also discusses differences in healthcare systems and various cultural, social, ethical, and legal considerations. While these considerations influence the development of genetic counseling programs and genetic counseling practice, the global growth in the profession suggests there is a broad recognition of the need for and value of genetic counseling services.