Maximize and promote educational opportunities to increase public and professional awareness/knowledge of genetics and the availability of comprehensive genetic services in the State.

• Increase public and health care provider understanding of basic genetic principles and health issues, including ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic advances and its impact on health care
• Continue to provide ongoing genetic educational programs for professionals, students and consumers through conferences, seminars and guest lectures
• Continue identifying opportunities to offer genetic education by networking with professional/consumer organizations and programs
• Improve the awareness and support of genetic services, knowledge and technology in the Department of Health by providing genetic presentations at their state and regional conferences
• Educate key policymakers about genetic diseases, genetic testing, the impact of genetics on public health and of genetic services available in North Dakota
• Integrate human genetics into curricula throughout the educational system
• Foster expansion of medical genetics into the medical school curriculum
• Assess unmet genetic training needs for allied health care providers, social workers and human services providers
• Incorporate practical genetic education into existing health curricula, including graduate and undergraduate nursing programs, other health related disciplines and human service disciplines
• Increase opportunities to teach genetics in grades K-12

Improve access to genetic information, referral services and resources to professionals and families

• Maximize education opportunities to increase public and professional awareness and knowledge of genetic conditions and the availability of genetic services through the implementation of a statewide campaign using public services announcements, news articles, radio shows, websites, and newsletters promoting and educating knowledge of genetics.
• Expand and market the Department of Pediatrics/Division of Medical Genetics website to provide information on genetic services, including availability, access, indications, benefits and referral processes
• Continue to disseminate informational materials about genetic conditions, birth defects, resources and related topics to professionals and consumers
• Continue to maintain genetic website and linkages
• Provide website links to other helpful genetic resources to provide timely access to accurate information about diagnosis, and management of genetic conditions, including culturally appropriate materials.
• Continue to encourage individuals and families to utilize support groups and agencies that address genetic disorders.

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