Evaluation of a Master's in Genomic Medicine framework: a national, multi-professional programme to educate healthcare professionals in NHS England

PURPOSE: Genomic medicine is revolutionising healthcare but requires healthcare professionals to update their understanding of genomics and its application to clinical practice for successful implementation. To meet this need, Heath Education England developed the 'Master's in Genomic Medicine', a national multi-professional programme to increase genomic literacy in the National Health Service workforce. This study summarises an evaluation of the programme which will inform its future development.

METHODS: Underpinned by Moore's evaluation framework, a mixed methods approach was used to characterise (i) learner demographics, (ii) perceptions of the programme, (iii) knowledge and/or qualifications achieved, and (iv) the outcome(s) for practice in the workplace.

RESULTS: Learners were a diverse cohort of healthcare professionals, including doctors, healthcare scientists, nurses and midwives. Participant satisfaction was high for all elements of the programme, including the curriculum, learning environment(s), and multi-professional cohort(s), despite the challenges of engaging working professionals in part-time learning. Both learners and their managers reported enhanced genomic practice after completion of their studies.

CONCLUSION: The Master's in Genomic Medicine programme is an effective approach to professional education in genomic medicine. This broad multi-professional learning complements training aimed at specific groups of healthcare professionals.