“I just want to have control.” Engaging with the public on whole genome sequencing in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Join Dr. Holly Etchegary as she describes a program of public engagement research on whole genome sequencing in our province. Holly will describe the creation of a public advisory council on genomics and her work with the council to design public engagement research activities. She will share data collected through a provincial online survey and town halls that reveal complex public attitudes about genomics. Findings from the public engagement research can help inform policies and frameworks to guide the use of genome sequencing in our healthcare system and illustrate the benefit of identifying public expectations, concerns and information needs around genomics.

Speaker:

Dr. Holly Etchegary is NL SUPPORT's Patient Engagement Academic Lead. She is a health and social psychologist and Assistant Professor of Epidemiology in the Division of Medicine at Memorial University. Dr. Etchegary has extensive experience in conducting and advising on Patient-Oriented research and public engagement. She has a variety of research interests in the area of genetics health services and new genomic technologies such as genetic testing, in addition to the psychosocial effects and ethical implications of genetic risk, for both patients and families.