Best Geneticists in Winston-Salem

Introduction to Genetics and Its Role in Healthcare

Definition and scope of genetics in medicine

Genetics is a fundamental branch of medicine that focuses on the study of genes, heredity, and genetic variation in living organisms. In the context of healthcare, genetics plays a significant role in understanding, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of medical conditions.

Genetic disorders are conditions caused by changes in an individual's DNA. These can range from relatively common inherited conditions to rare syndromes. The field of medical genetics aims to identify these disorders, assess their impact on patients and their families, and develop strategies for management and treatment.

Genetic testing and counseling are essential components of genetic medicine. These services provide valuable information about an individual's genetic makeup, helping to identify potential health risks, guide treatment decisions, and inform family planning choices.

Overview of genetic services in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, offers a range of genetic services to its residents. Based on the provided data, the city has several types of genetic specialists, including medical geneticists, pediatric geneticists, and genetic counselors.

Medical geneticists, such as Dr. Amelia Kirby and Dr. Lori-Anne Schillaci, are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and managing genetic disorders. They often have additional certifications in related fields like pediatrics.

Genetic counselors, including professionals like Daragh Conrad, Kristin Wiley, and Lauren Baldwin, play a key role in providing information and support to individuals and families affected by or at risk for genetic conditions.

Common reasons for seeking genetic care in Winston-Salem may include: - Diagnosing rare genetic disorders - Assessing hereditary cancer risks - Prenatal genetic screening - Evaluating developmental delays or congenital anomalies in children - Genetic testing for adult-onset conditions

The presence of specialized facilities like Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center enhances the accessibility of comprehensive genetic services in the Winston-Salem area.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Winston-Salem

Factors to consider when choosing a genetics specialist

Credentials and board certifications

• Importance of board certifications in Genetics
• Example: Dr. Amelia Kirby's certifications from American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics and American Board of Pediatrics

Experience and areas of expertise

• Specializations within genetics (e.g., pediatric genetics, cancer genetics)
• Relevance of combined specialties, such as Dr. Amelia Kirby's expertise in both Pediatrics and Genetics

Patient ratings and reviews

• Importance of considering patient feedback
• Note on limited review data in the provided information (e.g., Daragh Conrad and Dr. Amelia Kirby both have 5-star ratings, but based on only one review each)

Resources for finding genetic specialists in Winston-Salem

Local medical centers and hospitals

• Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center as a primary institution for genetics services
• Exploring other local healthcare facilities that may offer genetic services

Online directories and physician finder tools

• Utilizing resources like Healthgrades.com for detailed provider information
• Cross-referencing multiple sources for comprehensive information on genetic specialists

Top-Ranked Genetics Specialists in Winston-Salem

Dr. Amelia Kirby

Qualifications and Specialties

• Board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Board-certified in Pediatrics
• Specializes in both Pediatrics and Genetics

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center
• Contact number: (336) 716-2734

Patient Satisfaction

• 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Note: Rating based on limited reviews

Daragh Conrad, CGC

Specialization

• Certified Genetic Counselor
• Focuses on Genetic Counseling services

Patient Satisfaction

• 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Note: Rating based on limited reviews

Contact Information

• Phone: (336) 716-6893

Other Notable Genetics Professionals

Dr. Lori-Anne Schillaci

• Specializes in Pediatrics and Genetics
• Board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Board-certified in Pediatrics
• Contact: (336) 713-9000

Dr. Patrick Koty

• Specializes in Genetics
• PhD qualification
• Contact: (336) 716-2255

Genetic Counselors

• Kristin Wiley, MS
• Lauren Baldwin, MS
• Caitlin Bozick
• Christopher Spencer, CGC
• Sarah Hughes, CGC

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Genetics Specialist

Importance of genetic counseling

Role of genetic counselors in patient care

• Explanation of how genetic counselors complement medical geneticists
• Discussion of the comprehensive support provided by genetic counselors

Available genetic counselors in Winston-Salem

• Mention of Kristin Wiley, Lauren Baldwin, and Caitlin Bozick
• Note on the prevalence of genetic counseling specialists in the area

Hospital affiliations and practice locations

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center

• Highlight as a major provider of genetic services
• Mention Dr. Amelia Kirby's affiliation with the center

Accessibility and convenience factors

• Discussion of location considerations for patients
• Importance of choosing a conveniently located specialist

Language and communication

Availability of English-speaking providers

• Note that all listed providers speak English
• Importance of clear communication in genetic consultations

Interpersonal skills of genetic specialists

• Emphasis on the need for empathetic and clear communication
• Suggestion to consider patient reviews when available