KEM Hospital Pune launches Multidisciplinary Medical Genetics Department

The inauguration of the Medical Genetics department was marked by the presence of Dr X K Coyaji, Medical Director of KEM Pune, and Dr V M Joshi, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at KEM Pune. The department will offer an extensive array of laboratory tests and genetic counselling services all in one place. These services will be provided under the expert guidance and supervision of renowned geneticists Dr Meenal Agarwal, Dr Chaitanya Datar, and Dr Manisha Doiphode.

The reproductive genetics clinic will offer preconception genetic testing for couples planning pregnancy, as well as genetic tests for pregnant women and couples with a family history of developmental delays, autism, and other conditions. The cancer genetics clinic will provide genetic testing for individuals with a family history of cancer to assess their risk levels and enable preventive measures. It will also offer genetic testing of cancer tissue for patients already diagnosed with cancer to determine the best treatment and targeted therapies. 

Dr Meenal Agarwal, medical geneticist, KEM Pune, told Hindustan Times, “The medical genetics department will work along with the departments of oncology, nephrology, neurology, obstetrics and gynaecology, IVF and foetal medicine (assisted reproductive therapy/ART) and paediatrics to offer comprehensive genetic testing services and pre-and post-test counselling.”

In the neurogenetics clinic, individuals with seizure disorders or metabolic disorders can undergo genetic testing to identify specific drugs or therapies tailored to their genetic defects. The nephrogenetics clinic will offer specialized services for kidney-related genetic conditions.

Dr Agarwal emphasized that genetic tests are primarily blood tests, but they are complex and do not yield simple 'yes' or 'no' answers. The results require careful interpretation by experienced professionals. “A majority of genetic disorders occur when there is no family history. Genetic testing is not only for the betterment of the next generation but also helps in the treatment of affected individuals undergoing genetic testing which is what we want to emphasise,” she said.

Dr Madhur Rao, Senior Deputy Medical Administrator at KEM Pune, and Shirin Wadia, General Administrator at KEM Pune, expressed their enthusiasm for the new Medical Genetics department. They believe that this development represents a significant milestone for the hospital and the healthcare sector in Pune. It showcases KEM Hospital's commitment to expanding multidisciplinary services and ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible at reasonable costs.

The establishment of the Medical Genetics department at KEM Hospital is expected to greatly enhance the healthcare services available in Pune, providing advanced diagnostic and treatment options to patients with complex genetic conditions.