Membership Consultation: Changes to Language for Genetic Counsellor Registration (Effective June 2026)
The HGSA Genetic Counsellor Board of Censors (GC BOC) is reviewing the language used to describe Genetic Counsellor registration categories. These proposed updates aim to improve clarity and consistency across our public website and policies, and to ensure alignment with the 2026 NASRHP Standards.
Why is this change being made?
When HGSA first joined NASRHP, there was a deliberate effort to clearly distinguish between the MHGSA and FHGSA credentials. At that time, this distinction was reflected using terms such as Active and Registered, which helped differentiate entry-level recognition from fellowship-level credentials.
Since then, the NASRHP Standards have been revised, with the updated standards coming into effect in 2026. Under these revised standards, the term “Registered” is now used to define someone who possesses the minimum standards of the genetic counselling profession - namely, holding a Master’s degree in Genetic Counselling and meeting accreditation requirements.
As a result, registration is now nationally recognised as the baseline standard for inclusion on a professional register. To remain aligned with this updated national framework, HGSA is proposing revised terminology that acknowledges registration as the minimum standard, while continuing to clearly recognise FHGSA as an advanced or extended-scope credential.
In line with the 2026 NASRHP Standards, the revised language reflects that:
- Registered status represents the minimum standard required to join the Register (equivalent to the MHGSA credential).
- The FHGSA qualification is positioned as an advanced or extended-scope credential, awarded by the HGSA to HGSA members only upon completion of Fellowship requirements, rather than a requirement for initial registration.
This approach aims to better reflect current professional pathways, improve clarity for members and employers, and ensure consistency with national accreditation standards.
What will change?
These updates will be reflected:
- Externally, on the HGSA website, including the Genetic Counselling Register and your HGSA member profile status’.
- Internally, across all GC BOC policies (which are publicly available and will be published by June 2026).
Below is a summary of the proposed changes to the Genetic Counsellor Registration Types, comparing the current terminology (2016 Standards) with the proposed terminology (2026 Standards):
What stays the same?
These changes relate to language and categorisation only. They do not alter:
- Eligibility criteria
- Scope of practice
- Oversight or regulatory expectations
We welcome your feedback
The GC BOC recognises the importance of clear, consistent language and values member input.
If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions regarding these proposed changes, please contact the GC BOC via email at [email protected] by 28 February. Feedback received will help inform the final wording and implementation.