15.6 Genes, Jargon and the Journey: Bringing Genetics to Rural Practitioners
Tracks
Botanical 2 room
Friday, October 24, 2025 |
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM |
Botanical 2 room |
Details
Format: Practical workshop (60-minute)
Speaker
Ms Katie Battese Ellis
Sr Genetic Counsellor, Sr Manager Medical Affairs
Illumina
Genes, Jargon and the Journey: Bringing Genetics to Rural Practitioners
3:45 PM - 4:50 PMAbstract Overview
Genomics knowledge and technology is moving at a rapid pace encompassing all aspects of medicine across the lifespan. Healthcare professionals need genomic literacy, skills and competencies appropriate for their professional role as genomics becomes relevant to the care of their patients1. This workshop, targeted to all healthcare practitioners (including specialists, generalists, nurse practitioners and allied health professionals) aims to provide a review of fundamental genomics concepts to enhance understanding, skills and confidence to successfully integrate genomics into their daily practice.
The workshop will encompass knowledge-based presentations and interactive engagement with the healthcare practitioners. Learner engagement will be elicited by directed questioning and polls that challenge understanding and small breakout group discussions focused on key aspects of case presentations and the specific learning outcomes. Practical resources will be provided to further assist health care providers in their daily practice.
Topics covered include:
-review and update of foundational genetics and genomic theory
-understanding the clinical utility of genomics in their field (including prenatal screening/diagnosis, paediatric, cancer and cardiology)
-understanding the types, limitations, and appropriate use of genomic tests
-interpreting genomics test reports
-case study applications of genomic medicine
The workshop will encompass knowledge-based presentations and interactive engagement with the healthcare practitioners. Learner engagement will be elicited by directed questioning and polls that challenge understanding and small breakout group discussions focused on key aspects of case presentations and the specific learning outcomes. Practical resources will be provided to further assist health care providers in their daily practice.
Topics covered include:
-review and update of foundational genetics and genomic theory
-understanding the clinical utility of genomics in their field (including prenatal screening/diagnosis, paediatric, cancer and cardiology)
-understanding the types, limitations, and appropriate use of genomic tests
-interpreting genomics test reports
-case study applications of genomic medicine
Biography
Katie has almost 30 years genetic counselling experience across all aspects of the field. Katie founded the Clinical Genetics unit for the ACT region in 1997 and was sole practitioner for a population of 800,00 before expanding the team. She facilitated several patient support groups, participated in Government Advisory Boards and chaired the Genetic Counselling, Ethics and Patient Education Group of the International Society for Prenatal Diagnosis for several years. Katie also has a Graduate Diploma in Higher Education, which provided her the opportunity to write the genomics components for several medical programs in Australia. Katie has been an invited speaker nationally and internationally particularly on understanding new genomic technologies and their impacts on patient care. Katie is passionate about education, increasing equity of access to healthcare and ensuring the voice of those with genetic conditions are heard. Her spare time is enjoyed with her husband and four daughters
Karen Harrop
Genetic Counsellor
Human Genetics Society of Australasia
Co-presenter
Biography
Karen is a certified and registered Genetic Counsellor with the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA), with extensive experience across private and public genetic healthcare settings. Since 2018, Karen has run a private genetics practice, while also serving as a Senior Genetic Counsellor at Genetic Health of Western Australia.
Karen has a strong background in reproductive, paediatric, and adult genetic counselling, with expertise in supporting individuals, couples, and families through complex and emotionally challenging situations. She is deeply committed to ensuring that individuals and families are empowered with clear information, compassionate guidance, and the opportunity to make informed choices. Her approach is grounded in empathy, clarity, and respect for everyone’s unique journey; whilst endeavouring to improve and facilitate equitable access to genomic health care.
Karen holds a Bachelor of Science, a Masters degree in Counselling, and is certification as a Genetic Counsellor by the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA) - with over 25 years experience.
