Geographic Disparities in Access to Genome Sequencing for Children

EMI Poster (2026)

PMID

Publication AuthorsChad Moretz, ScD, Robert Rigobello, MS, CGC, Morgan Driver, PhD, MS, CGC

Introduction

  • Despite growing evidence that genome sequencing (GS) increases diagnostic yield five-fold compared with usual care (38.6% versus 7.8%), many children still undergo lengthy testing odysseys before receiving sequencing.
  • Multiple societies have recommended GS as first-tier testing for pediatric patients with intellectual disability, developmental delays, congenital anomalies, epilepsy, and other clinical indications.
  • While this guidance allows for faster diagnoses and improved care, access currently remains uneven due to limited local access to GS.
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