QUESTION 15 OF 30

Do you feel that compassion is an important quality to have in clinical genetics?

Clinical geneticists often consult with patients who have either recently been diagnosed with a disease/condition or are on the precipice of being diagnosed. This can put the patients in a vulnerable state. To succeed during your training, you must have a compassionate bedside manner and an empathetic approach with every patient you encounter.

"Yes, I certainly do, and it angers me that people think clinical geneticists don't require empathy. I'm excited to work with patients with heart, neurologic, cancer, and other issues and help to put their medical puzzles together. Knowing that the patients I will be working closely with will be in very fearful and nerve-wracking situations, I would always be attentive to their needs, be empathetic in my approach and always take their needs into consideration."

Talk to your interviewers about how you have shown a compassionate approach to patient care throughout your training. Stress that you will continue to bring this same approach as a medical genetics resident and highlight why a compassionate approach is necessary in this field.

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Medical Genetics Residency Mock Interview

Do you feel that compassion is an important quality to have in clinical genetics?

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30 Medical Genetics Residency Interview Questions & Answers