Advanced practice providers in the medical genetics workforce: A nationwide survey.

PURPOSE

This study characterizes the current landscape of genetics advanced practice providers (APPs) in the United States.

METHODS

A 35-question survey was emailed to the Genetics APP Listserv in the fall of 2023. Questions represented 5 domains: demographics, practice, onboarding, compensation, and perceptions.

RESULTS

A total of 105 genetics APPs (93%) completed the survey. Genetics APPs evaluate various patient types and populations in multiple settings, working an average of 41.3 hours and seeing 15 patients weekly. Nearly all see new (96%) and follow-up (98%) patients and utilize telemedicine (93%). Half (51%) have only worked in the genetics specialty during their career. Overall, APPs are generally satisfied with their career as a genetics APP (98%) and work-life balance (86%), and most (86%) feel that they function at the top of their scope.

CONCLUSION

Study findings elucidate the current state of genetics APPs. Results define the characteristics and role of an APP in the genetics specialty and will guide employers and genetics organizations to utilize APPs at the top of their scope and recruit new APPs to this exciting field. A collaborative effort is needed to increase the overall genetics workforce, decrease patient wait times, and increase access to genetics care.