ABSTRACT
In the fast-paced world of clinical genetics, the role of the genetic counsellor is constantly being redefined. There is a consensus that genetic counselling should precede testing to ensure an informed choice is made. However, debate persists whether it should be a mandatory precursor to testing or should simply be made available. Also, the traditional guiding principles, client autonomy and non-directiveness, are currently being challenged on the basis of their interpretation, attainability and effectiveness in modern clinical genetics. Genetic counsellors must also grapple with the sensitive and revealing nature of genetic information and hence with its communitarian implications on two fronts: maintaining client confidentiality from third parties such as insurance companies; and dealing with the unresolved issue of familial rights to genetic information that may disclose vital health information. A clear definition of the role and purpose of genetic counselling is made further elusive by rapid advances in genetic mapping and screening technology, as each new genetic screening procedure made clinically available raises new medical, legal and ethical considerations.
