Best Geneticists in Akron

Introduction to Genetics in Healthcare

Overview of Genetic Medicine

Genetic medicine is a rapidly evolving field that focuses on using an individual's genetic information to inform medical care and treatment decisions. This branch of medicine encompasses various aspects, including the diagnosis, management, and prevention of genetic disorders.

The importance of genetic medicine in healthcare cannot be overstated. It plays a significant role in identifying hereditary conditions, assessing disease risks, and developing personalized treatment plans. By understanding a patient's genetic makeup, healthcare providers can offer more targeted and effective interventions.

The Role of Genetics Specialists

Genetics specialists come in various forms, each with unique expertise. These include medical geneticists, genetic counselors, and specialized physicians in areas such as pediatric genetics. In Akron, we see a range of professionals, from Dr. Stephen Mooney, who specializes in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility and Genetics, to genetic counselors like Kara Vitalone and Susan Woods.

Genetics professionals offer a wide array of services. Medical geneticists, such as Dr. Jason Laufman and Dr. Abdulrazak Alali in Akron, diagnose and manage genetic disorders. Genetic counselors, well-represented in Akron's healthcare landscape, provide risk assessment, education, and support to individuals and families affected by or at risk for genetic conditions. These specialists work together to provide comprehensive genetic healthcare services to the Akron community.

Choosing a Genetics Specialist in Akron

Factors to Consider

Qualifications and Certifications

• Review board certifications (e.g., American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics)
• Check educational background and specializations

Experience and Expertise

• Consider years of practice in genetics
• Look for specialists with relevant experience in your specific genetic concern

Hospital Affiliations

• Note connections with reputable institutions like Akron Children's Hospital
• Consider accessibility and convenience of affiliated hospitals

Patient Feedback

• Examine available ratings and reviews (e.g., Dr. Stephen Mooney's 3.2-star rating)
• Consider the number of reviews when assessing ratings

Types of Genetic Specialists in Akron

Medical Geneticists

• Physicians specializing in genetic disorders (e.g., Dr. Jason Laufman, Dr. Abdulrazak Alali)
• Often board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics

Genetic Counselors

• Professionals providing risk assessment and support (e.g., Kara Vitalone, Susan Woods)
• Often holding MS degrees and certified in genetic counseling

Specialized Physicians

• Doctors combining genetics with other specialties (e.g., Dr. Catherine Ward-Melver in Pediatrics and Genetics)
• May offer more comprehensive care for specific patient groups

Accessing Genetic Services in Akron

Healthcare Institutions

• Akron Children's Hospital as a primary center for genetic services
• Other affiliated hospitals and clinics in the area

Appointment Process

• Contact information provided for most specialists (e.g., phone numbers in the data)
• Potential need for referrals from primary care physicians

Insurance and Cost Considerations

• Importance of checking insurance coverage for genetic services
• Potential for out-of-pocket expenses for specialized genetic tests

Top Genetics Specialists in Akron

Medical Geneticists

Dr. Stephen Mooney

• Board-certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Specializes in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Genetics, Gynecology
• Affiliated with Summa Health System-Akron Campus and Aultman Hospital
• 3.2-star rating from 25 patient reviews
• Contact: (888) 402-1058

Dr. Catherine Ward-Melver

• Board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Specializes in Pediatrics and Genetics
• Affiliated with Akron Children's Hospital
• Contact: (330) 543-8792

Dr. Carrie Costin

• Board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Specializes in Genetics
• Affiliated with Akron Children's Hospital
• Contact: (330) 543-6633

Genetic Counselors

Available Genetic Counselors

• Kara Vitalone, MS
• Susan Woods, MS
• Jennifer Stein, CGC
• Constance Motter, CGC
• Melonie Michelson, MA
• Joleen Viront, MS
• Katherine Krepkovich, CGC
• Emily Creque, MS

Additional Genetics Specialists

Dr. Jason Laufman

• Board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics
• Affiliated with Akron Children's Hospital
• Contact: (330) 543-8792

Dr. Abdulrazak Alali

• Board-certified in Medical Genetics and Genomics, and Pediatrics
• Affiliated with Akron Children's Hospital
• Contact: (304) 293-1240

Additional Resources for Finding Genetics Specialists in Akron

Online Platforms and Directories

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive listings of genetics specialists
• Access to patient reviews and ratings
• Detailed provider profiles including education and certifications

Hospital Websites

• Akron Children's Hospital directory
• Summa Health System provider search
• Filtered search options for genetics specialists

Professional Organizations

American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG)

• Find a Geneticist tool
• Resources for patients seeking genetic services

National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)

• Directory of genetic counselors
• Information on genetic counseling services

Local Healthcare Networks

Primary Care Physician Referrals

• Personalized recommendations based on patient needs
• Coordination with local genetics specialists

Community Health Centers

• Information on accessible genetic services
• Potential for sliding scale fees or financial assistance