Effects of hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome patients on the workflow and professional satisfaction of genetic counselors

Abstract

The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), a group of uncommon connective tissue disorders, are, paradoxically, an increasingly common referral to genetics specialists. Of the 13 types of EDS, the most common is hypermobile EDS (hEDS), which lacks a known genetic etiology and for which diagnosis is achieved via a robust set of clinical criteria. While previous investigations have characterized many clinical aspects of EDS as a syndrome and patients' lived experiences, a gap in the literature exists regarding clinicians' experience caring for these individuals. This study sought to understand the effects of hEDS patient referrals from genetic counselors' perspectives. To capture these novel views and values, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 participants who were members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) and had experience working with the hEDS patient population. Interview questions explored the frequency of hEDS referrals in their clinic, investigated their roles and responsibilities as genetic counselors when working with this population, analyzed their workflow for this indication, assessed the impacts on their professional satisfaction, and explored potential options for improving workflow and care for the hEDS patient population. Reflexive thematic analysis yielded four themes: (1) Referrals for hEDS have generally increased over time and many institutions have implemented new policies to control this influx, (2) genetic counselors' primary roles include education and addressing psychosocial matters for this population, (3) genetic counselors feel both rewarded and challenged by these referrals, and (4) genetic counselors call for more education and training on hEDS for all healthcare specialties. Our findings provide a better understanding of the goals of the hEDS patient referrals to genetics specialists and the opportunities and challenges those referrals present. Genetic counselors have specific training and skills in psychosocial counseling and communication, in some ways making them ideal care providers for this population. However, they are simultaneously a scarce resource and the complex medical issues presented by many patients with hEDS make multidisciplinary management essential. We conclude with potential avenues for improving interactions with this population.