Clinical Genetics is the practice of clinical medicine with particular regard to hereditary disorders and is recognized as a primary specialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) Residency programs in clinical genetics are accredited by the American Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and require a minimum of 24 months of training. These programs are designed to provide the knowledge, understanding, and skills required for the competent diagnostic evaluation, management, and genetic counseling of patients with genetic disorders and their families. Individuals seeking acceptance into clinical genetics training programs must hold an M.D. or D.O. degree (or their equivalent) had have completed a minimum of 24 months of training in an ACGME-accredited residency program in internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, or other medical specialty. In addition, combined 4-5 year training residency programs in Internal Medicine/Medical Genetics, OBGYN/Medical Genetics and Pediatrics/Medical Genetics are also available. Residents accepted to ACGME accredited residency programs. Physicians with a M.D. earned outside of the United States or Canada must have their degree reviewed by the ABMG Credentials Committee prior to entering a training program.
