Telehealth technology: Reducing barriers for rural residents seeking genetic counseling

Many rural residents do not receive genetic counseling or testing when needed because of health care access barriers, such as lack of providers in rural areas and the requirement for rural residents to travel to larger cities for these services. Telehealth technology can reduce these barriers by allowing rural residents to receive genetic counseling through a two-way interactive audio/video secure connection in a local clinic setting or in their homes. Telegenetics is a satisfactory solution for both patient and provider and provides benefits for rural patients despite ethical, legal, and reimbursement considerations.