Behind the Standards: Boise State’s Eichmeyer on the Frontlines of Genetic Counseling Accreditation

Jen Eichmeyer, program director of the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program, is serving as the president of the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling. In this national leadership position, Eichmeyer is helping shape the future of genetic counseling education across North America.

Eichmeyer's appointment comes at a pivotal time. The organization is reviewing its accreditation standards, a process that occurs every four years.

"This year, I'll be leading our efforts to finalize the updated standards through public comment and approval," Eichmeyer said. "We'll then release those standards and give programs time to adjust and ensure compliance."

Eichmeyer hopes her presidency can help foster a more collaborative relationship between accrediting bodies and educational programs.

"Even though we're a regulatory body, I want to encourage more partnership," she said. "I've been on the other side of this process as a program director - I know the challenges."

With over 20 years in the field, Eichmeyer has seen genetic counseling grow from a niche profession into a rapidly expanding area of healthcare. She wants students to understand the range of possibilities the degree offers.

"There's so much you can do with a genetic counseling degree," she said. "I have colleagues in insurance, nonprofits, advocacy, and research. It's incredibly versatile."

"Boise State has been incredibly supportive," she said. "They've elevated my work and recognized the significance of this role."

For students considering the profession, Eichmeyer encourages gaining hands-on experience in support roles or clinical environments.

"It's important to understand what people go through when they receive a life-altering diagnosis," she said. "Students should have experience helping people navigate complex emotions - and also know how to manage their own."

"As healthcare professionals, we should be able to see patients of all backgrounds," she said. "Our students need to be prepared to work with people who are both like and different from them."

Eichmeyer also welcomes new graduates to get involved in accreditation efforts.

"Most people don't know what the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling is," she said. "But we're the ones setting the rules. Having new professionals contribute their perspective can help us design better systems."

While the work of accreditation may often go unseen, Eichmeyer hopes her leadership brings clarity and compassion to a process that ultimately benefits future counselors and the patients they will serve.

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