Program Description and Goals

The Combined Pediatrics-Medical Genetics and Genomics Residency Program at Phoenix Children’s is designed to train the next generation of professionals in Medical Genetics. Phoenix Children’s draws patients from the entire state of over seven million residents, giving a broad and unfiltered exposure to many rare diseases from diverse populations living in both urban and rural environments. Phoenix Children’s draws patients from the entire state of over seven million residents, giving a broad and unfiltered exposure to many rare diseases from diverse populations living in both urban and rural environments. Phoenix Children’s serves as the primary referral for inborn errors of metabolism through the Arizona Newborn Screening program and operates multiple clinical trials for lysosomal disorders. The goals of the program are to:

• Prepare residents in acquiring comprehensive skills in the evaluation and management of genetic and genomic disorders.
• Train residents to provide genetic counseling that fully addresses the patient’s and family’s needs, with sensitivity to their specific educational, economic, and cultural background.
• Instruct highly qualified residents in clinical and translational research, and to inspire and prepare them for a future career as leaders in clinical medicine, academic medicine and as physician scientists.
• Teach residents strategies to maintain wellness, build resilience and minimize burnout.
• Establish a concrete career development plan for residents, in order to maximize the potential for success in their future.
• Provide experience and guidance in patient safety, QI, and cost-effectiveness, necessary components for success as a subspecialist.