AHDI's Healthcare Documentation Integrity Conference 2015

Genetic testing for hereditary cancer risk has evolved significantly in the last five years as new genes have been identified and as access to testing has increased. This session is for non-genetics professionals and will provide an overview of the current status of hereditary cancer genetics from the clinician’s standpoint. The following topics will be highlighted: (a) features or “red flags” that are suggestive of hereditary cancer susceptibility within an individual and a family; (b) the recent evolution of genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes to include multi-gene panels for hereditary breast, ovarian, colon, and other cancers; (c) the cancer risks associated with selected hereditary cancer genes including BRCA1 and BRCA2 and newly described genes; (d) cancer risk management options for mutation carriers through a series of case examples; and (e) options for hereditary cancer  families without a definable gene mutation. Throughout the presentation, the nomenclature associated with hereditary cancer genetics will be emphasized and common misconceptions will be highlighted.

Attendees will develop an understanding of the major aspects of a clinical hereditary cancer genetics case and the roles that different healthcare providers play in the management of patients who have inherited a susceptibility to cancer.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the features of a personal and family history that suggest inherited cancer risk.
2. Understand the current breadth of available hereditary cancer genetic tests.
3. Describe the screening and risk-reducing options available to patients with BRCA mutations.
4. Explain how most cancer genetic syndromes are inherited within a family.

CEC: 1 CM

Critical thinking has been identified as one of the most important skills in the modern workplace. The U.S. Department of Labor lists critical thinking as the key building block of organizational competencies. Critical thinking skills can improve job performance and increase one’s potential for advancement. This session will introduce concepts in critical thinking and problem solving for making business, organizational and even life decisions. We will explore the importance of correctly identifying the argument and recognizing assumptions that can lead to faulty conclusions. Additionally, we will discuss common fallacies used in arguments and how they lead individuals and teams into making poor decisions. This presentation is designed for anyone interested in improving their problem-solving skills but is especially relevant to those in leadership positions in the workplace, community or professional association.

CEC: 1 MTT