Design and implementation of genetic services within an HMO.
Clinical application of genetic knowledge is essential for providing effective preventive health care. A large HMO such as Kaiser Permanente is an ideal setting for this application. Implementing a comprehensive program for genetic screening is complex, however, and requires informed consent, laboratory testing, test interpretation, genetic counseling, follow-up for positive screening results, and database systems. This article summarizes genetic services provided by Kaiser Permanente at four subregional genetic centers in Northern California.
Bachman
R P
RP
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA.
Schoen
E J
EJ
D002140:California; D005260:Female; D005817:Genetic Counseling / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006279:Health Maintenance Organizations / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories; D008511:Medicine; D015997:Neonatal Screening; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D011315:Preventive Medicine; D016730:Program Development; D013038:Specialization