Abstract
Purpose: To document primary care physicians' utilization and perceptions of genetics services. Methods: A randomized survey of physicians in the Pacific Northwest. Results: The greatest factor prompting a genetics referral was the patient's interest in the evaluation, and the most common reason not to obtain a consultation was the perception that it was of no benefit to the patient. Genetics consultation was rarely sought for a family history of cancer or for deafness, polycystic kidney disease, or congenital heart disease. Even when uncertain about relative risk, physicians usually counseled a patient themselves rather than referring to a specialist. Conclusion: Primary care physicians need more education about the genetic component of many diseases to provide directly and to refer appropriately for genetics services.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 13-18 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Genetics in Medicine |
Volume | 1 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1998 |
Keywords
- Attitudes
- Genetics services
- Perceptions
- Primary care
- Utilization
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Genetics(clinical)