Happy Medical Genetics Awareness Week! The goal of this week is to raise awareness of the invaluable contributions that medical genetics healthcare professionals make in the diagnosis, management and prevention of genetic diseases! Each day we will feature an amazing PA who works in the field of medical genetics!
Day 1/4: Meet Margie Glissmeyer, PA-C! Margie is a genetics PA at Seattle Children’s Hospital.
Why genetics?
I originally came to the world of genetics through my previous role in Surgical Oncology. I completed the City of Hope Intensive Course in 2016 to add access to genetic testing for our cancer patients. As my practice in cancer genetics grew, I fell in love with the field. I enjoyed genetics so much that I transitioned out of surgery and ultimately landed in Pediatric Genetics at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Being new to Pediatric Genetics has been a steep learning curve that I am enjoying every day!
What does your typical day entail?
I work in outpatient general pediatric genetics as part of a large regional group. I see clinic patients several days a week. My patients have a range of conditions from multiple patients with developmental delays or autism to extremely rare genetic conditions. In clinic, my day involves working with a paired genetic counselor who sees our patients first. I then complete the history and physical exam then we regroup and come up with a testing plan. Outside of clinic, my days are filled with follow-up including interpretation of test results and coordination with other specialties. I also participate in case conferences and have the opportunity to participate in educational activities with leading experts at the University of Washington weekly.
What is your favorite part of being a genetics PA?
My favorite part of genetics is that it involves developing strong relationships with patients and their families that can lead to real changes in their management and provide answers to difficult questions. I also love that it is a fast changing field with new discoveries and advancements. It’s an exciting time to be working in genetics!
