Examining Roles, Challenges, and Opportunities Within the Metabolic Genetics Workforce

Abstract

The metabolic genetics clinic is a crucial hub for the management of patients with inborn errors of metabolism and other complex genetic conditions. Because more patients are being identified due to the expanded diagnostics, including newborn screening, and living longer with the advent of improved therapies, the multidisciplinary metabolic genetics team has been challenged in growing proportionally to meet patients' needs. Insufficient rates of recruitment to the field and increased levels of attrition have led to concerns about a rising shortage of metabolic genetics health care providers and necessitate creative solutions to grow the workforce. Here, we describe the roles and responsibilities of the multidisciplinary metabolic genetics team and describe opportunities to support patient care and promote clinician work–life balance in a rapidly changing field.