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<p><strong>Greenwood Genetic Center, MUSC further expanding relationship to improve access to genetic services&nbsp;</strong></p>
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<p>Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC) and The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC Health) have signed a letter of intent to expand their longtime collaboration to improve access to high-quality, coordinated and cost-effective genetic services and their recent affiliation to drive innovation in the genetics field. A definitive agreement and approval by both organizations’ boards is still required and anticipated by the end of the year.</p>
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<p>The two entities have worked together on clinical consultations, provider education, and research for more than a decade. According to MUSC, adding to the depth and breadth of the almost two-year old formal affiliation with the state’s most advanced and innovative genetic center was an easy choice.</p>
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<p>With recent and rapid growth in the understanding of how genetics impacts health throughout the lifespan, access to genetic information is increasingly important for individuals to make informed healthcare and lifestyle decisions. With a primary goal of improving access for patients and their families, this expanded relationship between GGC and MUSC aims to leverage both organizations’ strengths and expertise. Together they will provide high-quality care and access to the latest technological advances in diagnostics, research, and treatment. In the interest of better serving these needs, the expanded goals of the relationship include:</p>
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<p>Co-developing a strategic plan for genetic services.</p>
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<p>Continuing to increase access to clinical genetic services for MUSC patients and all South Carolinians.</p>
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<p>Building on collaborative telehealth platforms to improve wait times for appointments and consultations.</p>
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<p>Sharing critical resources and expertise where possible to lower costs.</p>
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<p>Pursuing additional workforce development, research, clinical trials and treatment collaborations.</p>
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<p>Advancing precision health and jointly serving as leaders in this innovative, dynamic area of health care.</p>
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<p>Nearly every child in South Carolina who has been diagnosed with a genetic birth defect, developmental delay or other hereditary disorder has already benefited from GGC expertise, due to the center’s depth of care for children with rare conditions and commitment to new technologies and diagnostics. GGC, a nonprofit institute centered on research, clinical genetic services, diagnostic laboratory testing and educational programs and resources, is focused on compassionate patient care and innovative scientific advancement. This deepened relationship with MUSC will mean GGC can expand their purview to include additional adult genetics services to help serve patients with cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>To learn more about clinical patient services, visit muschealth.org. For more information about GGC please visit <a href="http://www.ggc.org" data-type="URL" data-id="www.ggc.org">www.ggc.org</a>.<br><br><em>Exclusive content from CARE magazine</em></p>
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