We explore the genetic counseling board exam, its development, delivery, and resources available to test takers by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) directly! There is so much to cover so this is a DOUBLE EPISODE of DNA Today. 

Joining us in this episode is ABGC’s current President, Angela Trepanier, and the Executive Director, Heather Rich. They provide an insider look at the exam and discuss the process of exam development, addressing issues, and adapting the exam to be more inclusive and equitable. The conversation covers various aspects of the genetic counseling board exam, including the content, passing point determination, exam administration, and recent changes. It also delves into the cost of the exam, financial assistance, and the impact on genetic counselors. The two ABGC speakers provide insights and transparency to ease anxiety for test takers and offer valuable information for program directors and supervisors.

Takeaways

• Insight into the development and delivery of the genetic counseling board exam.
• Understanding the multi-pronged process of exam development and the involvement of diverse experts.
• Adaptation of the exam to address biases and promote inclusivity and equity.
• The importance of transparency and communication in addressing exam issues and implementing changes. The passing point for the genetic counseling board exam is determined through a rigorous process involving a passing point committee and psychometricians.
• The cost of the exam is attributed to various factors, including test vendor collaboration, committee meetings, and innovation costs.
• Financial assistance and reduced exam fees aim to increase equity and access for individuals taking the exam, with a focus on supporting those facing financial hardship.
• The exam administration process has evolved to provide immediate scoring and diagnostic score reports, enhancing the candidate experience.
• Insights from the conversation provide valuable information for test takers, program directors, and supervisors, offering transparency and easing anxiety around the exam process.

The National Society of Genetic Counselors' (NSGC) Professional Status Survey (PSS) of 2024 reported that 25% of respondents (full time genetic counselors) had their board exam fees covered by their employer. Nineteen percent had their employer cover their board exam review course. 

Most genetic counselors who sat for exams in 2023 did not receive compensation from their

employer upon board certification (83%). Thirteen percent of genetic counselors received a

raise in salary upon board certification in 2023.

Want to learn more about boards? We have a couple other episodes to listen to, some of which we mentioned in the interview. 

#126 Adam Buchanan on ABGC Boards Exam - Answering listener submitted questions about the board exam is Adam Buchanan, who was the ABGC president at the time.

#138 Genetic Counseling Boards Advice - In this episode our host Kira Dineen (who practices in prenatal) is joined by a cancer and a pediatric genetic counselor for insight from the three major specialties to provide insight 

#235 Genetic Counseling History: ABGC Formation - Seasoned genetic counselors Ann Walker and Ed Kloza reminisce and share about the formation of the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). 

During the episode we also mentioned some other resources….

GC Genius Flashcards - 150 Flashcards: Top 100 Conditions to Know + Expansion Pack (150 conditions)

ABGC Official Content Outline 

ABGC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

ABGC Practice Exam

ABGC Certified Genetic Counselor (CGC®) Candidate Guide

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