Best Geneticists in Pittsburgh
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Genetics in Healthcare
Definition and scope of genetic medicine
Genetic medicine is a rapidly evolving field that focuses on using information about an individual's genetic makeup to inform medical care and treatment decisions. This branch of medicine encompasses the study of inherited disorders, genetic risk factors for common diseases, and the ways in which genes interact with environmental factors to influence health outcomes.
Genetic testing has become an increasingly important tool in healthcare, allowing medical professionals to identify genetic variations that may contribute to disease risk or affect treatment responses. Genetic counseling, often provided in conjunction with testing, helps individuals and families understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease.
Importance of genetic specialists in modern healthcare
Genetic specialists play a key role in modern healthcare by providing expert knowledge in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of genetic disorders. These professionals are equipped to interpret complex genetic information and translate it into actionable medical recommendations. Their expertise is particularly valuable in cases of rare genetic conditions or when standard treatments prove ineffective.
The field of genetics is also at the forefront of personalized medicine, an approach that tailors medical treatment to an individual's genetic profile. Genetic specialists contribute to this advancement by helping to identify genetic markers that can predict disease risk or drug response, allowing for more targeted and effective interventions. This personalized approach has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by avoiding ineffective treatments.
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List of Geneticists in Pittsburgh
American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology
State University of New York at Buffalo (Medical School, 2000)
English
Saint Vincent Hospital
West Penn Hospital
Jefferson Hospital
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Genetics
American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
American Board of Pediatrics
University Colo HSC (Fellowship Hospital, 1991)
Northwestern U-Chldns Memorial (Residency Hospital, 1989)
STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK / HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER AT SYRACUSE (Medical School, 1986)
English
French
Nemours Children's Hospital, Florida
Genetics
American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
University of Kansas (Undergraduate School, 2009)
Health Science Center Houston School Of Public Health (Medical School, 2009)
University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston McGovern Medical School (Medical School, 2006)
English
Boston Children's Hospital
Genetics
Choosing a Genetics Specialist in Pittsburgh
Factors to consider when selecting a genetic specialist
Qualifications and certifications
- Review board certifications, such as American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
- Consider additional certifications in related fields (e.g., Pediatrics, Internal Medicine)
Experience and areas of expertise
- Assess years of practice and specialization in specific genetic disorders
- Evaluate educational background and ongoing professional development
Patient reviews and ratings
- Examine star ratings and patient feedback on platforms like Healthgrades
- Consider the number of reviews when assessing overall patient satisfaction
Overview of genetic services available in Pittsburgh
Types of genetic specialists
- Medical geneticists: Dr. Evgenia Sklirou, Dr. Marta Kolthoff, Dr. Michael Bashford
- Genetic counselors: Abigail Peffer, Jaclyn Amurgis, Kyla Morphy
Major healthcare institutions offering genetic services
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
- UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital
- Allegheny Health Network
Top-Ranked Genetics Specialists in Pittsburgh
Dr. Evgenia Sklirou
Qualifications and Expertise
- Board-certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
- Medical degree from University of Athens College of Medicine
- Specializes in Genetics
Patient Ratings and Contact Information
- Perfect 5.0-star rating (based on 1 review)
- Contact number: (412) 692-5070
Dr. Marta Kolthoff
Professional Background
- Dual specialization in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Genetics
- Board-certified by American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics and American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Medical degree from State University of New York at Buffalo (2000)
Hospital Affiliations and Patient Feedback
- Affiliated with Saint Vincent Hospital, West Penn Hospital, and Jefferson Hospital
- 2.3-star rating (based on 3 reviews)
- Contact number: (412) 578-3951
Dr. Michael Bashford
Education and Certification
- Medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine (1989)
- Board-certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
Practice Information
- Specializes in Genetics
- Contact number: (412) 641-4168
Genetic Counseling Services in Pittsburgh
Importance of genetic counseling
Role in patient education and decision-making
- Explanation of genetic test results
- Discussion of inheritance patterns
- Risk assessment for genetic conditions
Support for individuals and families
- Emotional support during genetic testing process
- Assistance in family planning decisions
- Resources for coping with genetic diagnoses
Highly-rated genetic counselors in Pittsburgh
Abigail Peffer, MS
- 5-star rating on Healthgrades
- Affiliated with Magee-Womens Hospital
- Contact: (412) 641-4171
Jaclyn Amurgis, MS
- 5-star rating on Healthgrades
- Specialized in genetic counseling
- Contact: (412) 359-8267
Kyla Morphy, CGC
- 5-star rating on Healthgrades
- Certified Genetic Counselor
- Contact: (412) 359-8254
Genetic counseling process in Pittsburgh
Initial consultation
- Family history assessment
- Discussion of genetic testing options
- Explanation of potential outcomes
Follow-up appointments
- Review of test results
- Development of management plans
- Ongoing support and guidance