Genetic Counselling practices in European oncology MDTs

This project aims to explore the integration, roles, and perceived value of genetic counselling in oncology care across different European healthcare settings. Your input will help us better understand how genetic counselling is currently practiced and how it is viewed by professionals working in Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs). This will contribute to shaping more informed, context-sensitive recommendations for service development and policy. Genetic counselling is a structured and patient-centred process that helps individuals and families understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic conditions. In oncology, this typically includes assessing hereditary cancer risk, supporting informed decision-making around genetic testing, and discussing implications for treatment, surveillance, and at-risk relatives. The process is typically delivered by professionals with specialised training, guided by recognised standards of care. In addition to supporting patients, genetic counsellors may also contribute to MDTs by facilitating communication around genetic information, coordinating testing pathways, and helping integrate genetic considerations into clinical decision-making. In Europe, the professional practice of genetic counsellors is overseen by the European Board of Medical Genetics (EBMG), which sets certification standards and promotes harmonised training and regulatory frameworks across countries.Across Europe, however, the legislation, organisation, delivery, and perceived role of genetic counselling vary considerably. In some settings, it is fully integrated into MDTs and valued as a key part of patient care. In others, it may be provided in different ways or viewed as overlapping with existing roles. Understanding this diversity - including both its benefits and limitations - is one of the aspects this survey aims to explore. The project is coordinated by the Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO) and the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) and is conducted as part of the Master's in Genetic Counselling at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB).