The emerging role of genetics professionals in forensic kinship DNA identification after a mass fatality: lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina volunteers.

Abstract

To explore the experience of medical genetics professionals who volunteered in the DNA identification efforts after Hurricane Katrina to identify "lessons learned" and plan for future recovery efforts. A web-based survey was administered to volunteers in the Fall of 2007. Sixty-six individuals (75%) completed the survey. Eighty-six percent volunteered because they felt their skills as genetics professional were needed and 46% desired additional training on the molecular aspects of kinship analysis. Most (97%) reported that they would like to see the genetics community become actively involved in further developing the role of genetics professionals in mass fatality response. All respondents (100%) would volunteer again. Developing a registry of volunteers and educational materials tailored to the needs of genetics professionals should be explored as a mechanism to prepare the genetics community to play an active role in future mass fatality response.