Certification: Clinical Cytogenetics and Genomics

American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics external site

9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814-3998

Clinical Cytogenetics is a laboratory-based specialty of medical genetics that involves the processing and analysis of the chromosomes of various types of samples with the express purpose of detecting and interpreting chromosomal abnormalities. Clinical Cytogenetics is recognized as a primary specialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) [www.abms.org]. Laboratory postdoctoral fellowship training programs in this specialty are accredited by the American Board of Medical Genetics and require a minimum of 24 months of training, with a significant amount of clinical interaction as related to human genetic abnormalities. Trainees entering this specialty must hold either an M.D. or Ph.D. (or their equivalent); the Ph.D. degree must either be in genetics or a related field within the biological sciences. Individuals with a M.D. or Ph.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. Upon successful completion of training, clinical cytogeneticists will have the skills and knowledge to function as technical supervisors of clinical laboratories as well as clinical consultants in the management of patients and families referred for chromosomal testing, including those with constitutional or acquired cytogenetic abnormalities; and may in many jurisdictions be deemed qualified to direct specialty cytogenetic laboratories.

The certification corresponds to a specialty within a recognized occupation. For example, Oncology Nurse and Pediatric Nurse are specialties within the nursing field, so Certified Oncology Nurse and Certified Pediatric Nurse would be classified as specialty certifications.