Primary care physicians' utilization and perceptions of genetics services.
OBJECTIVE
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.


CONCLUSIONS
Primary care physicians need more education about the genetic component of many diseases to provide directly and to refer appropriately for genetics services.
Hayflick
S J
SJ
Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA. hayflick@ohsu.edu
Eiff
M P
MP
Carpenter
L
L
Steinberger
J
J
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003625:Data Collection; D005826:Genetics, Medical; D015205:Northwestern United States; D010465:Perception; D010821:Physicians, Family / Q000523:psychology*; D011320:Primary Health Care; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D000078329:Workforce