Midwives Visit DDC Clinic to Learn About Rare Genetic Disorders

October 30, 2026

Furthering its commitment to increasing awareness and understanding of rare genetic disorders, DDC Clinic hosted Midwife Day – A Day of Genetics, Community, and Collaborative Care on Friday, October 16.

Midwives, nurses and other healthcare professionals turned out for the special educational program where they learned about the clinic’s beginning, the life-changing impact of genetic testing, the clinic’s highly specialized patient care, and the network of helpful resources available to them.

Led by DDC Clinic team members, the program featured several presentations. The group learned about the Genetic Awareness Panel (GAP), a powerful diagnostic tool which can simultaneously test for 270 rare conditions found in the Amish population and which also serves as a supplemental newborn screening tool. The day also included a first-hand look at the clinic’s Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, a tour of the Family Heart Center and essential hands-on training in infant CPR.

“Health education is a key component of what we do, and knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we can share” said Executive Director, Eli Miller. “By connecting with midwives and other healthcare professionals through programs like this, we create greater understanding, and provide practical education on genetics, inherited conditions, the importance of early diagnosis, and the unique healthcare needs of the Plain community.”

In addition to Eli Miller, DDC Clinic Midwife Day presenters included Medical Director Dr. Heng Wang; Genetic Counselor Mollie Cochran; Research and Technical Director Dr. Baozhong Xin; Laboratory Manager Julia Szekely; and Physician Assistant Kyle Whittemore.

“Our first Midwife Day was a success, and we hope to host this event every year,” said Eli Miller. “Midwives play an important role – they welcome little ones into the world, and we want them to know that they can partner with DDC Clinic to provide the best possible care for families.”