'The edge effect': an exploratory study of some factors affecting referrals to cancer genetic services in rural Wales.
This exploratory study examines the role of rurality in referrals from primary care to the Cancer Genetics Service for Wales (CGSW) through a case study of referrals from Montgomeryshire, a predominantly rural area in mid-Wales located adjacent to the English border. Awareness of CGSW amongst practitioners is low. We found that rurality plays a role in referral behaviour as distance, time travelling and accessibility by car and public transport are all perceived to have an impact on the patient's decision to attend a clinic appointment. Some patients are being referred outside Wales as ease of access to services is considered more important than distance.
Iredale
Rachel
R
Cancer Genetics Service for Wales, Institute of Medical Genetics, University of Wales College of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK. rachel.iredale@cardiffandvale.wales.nhs.uk
Jones
Lesley
L
Gray
Jonathon
J
Deaville
Jenny
J
D001364:Awareness; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics*; D011320:Primary Health Care; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012424:Rural Population; D014852:Wales