Specialty Café is a new podcast series produced by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada to provide a glimpse into different specialties. In this third episode, the host will explore the specialty with a specialist and a resident of Medical Genetics & Genomics.

Specialty Snapshot – Medical Genetics & Genomics

Medical Genetics and Genomics is the specialty concerned with the effect of genetic variation on human development and health. The practice is based on an in-depth knowledge of basic genetic principles, knowledge of genetic disease (as it affects all body systems and individuals of all ages) and a clear understanding of the principles of genetic counselling.

To become certified in medical genetics requires a 5 years of approved residency training. This training includes 2 years of training in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Medical Genetics and Genomics. Following that, the 3rd and 4th years are spent doing rotations in clinical genetics and laboratory work in cytogenetics and biochemical and molecular genetics. Finally, the 5th year includes clinical genetics, research or training in other areas.

Life as a Geneticist & Genomicist

Are you a fan of puzzles? Do you see yourself as a doctor of rare diseases? Join Andrew Pauls as he delves into the reality of a specialty not all that well known in medical school - Medical Genetics and Genomics. He chats with Dr. Joanna Lazier and Dr. Alison Castle (PGY-4 Medical Genetics & Genomics) about why they chose this specialty; work/life balance possibilities, and what a typical day looks like. Spoiler alert - there is no such thing as a typical day!

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Additional resource:

• Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - Details in training requirements
• CMA - Medical Genetics Profile

Specialty Café / Café des spécialités is produced by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and the podcast does not receive funding or other support from RBC Healthcare. This Podcast is promoted by Royal Bank of Canada with the permission of the Royal College. © The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, 2021. All rights reserved.

This article originally appeared on the RBC Healthcare - Advice & Learning