[Quality of genetic services--analysis of medical genetic expert opinions solicited by private health insurance companies].
Service quality for patients with genetic conditions can be assessed through the analysis of clinical genetic data sets, as was the case in this study. It represents a secondary analysis of a compilation of a single genetic expert's medical opinions covering the years 2000 to 2009, solicited by private health insurance companies with the intention of probing into medical necessity and adequacy of genetic testing ordered by physicians. Genetic testing has become an increasingly important part of clinical diagnostic services. Controlling these services does not only reduce costs but also saves patients from unwarranted over-utilisation. Therefore, the reasons given by doctors when ordering genetic tests are part of the quality of service delivery. The study revealed that more than 30% of the molecular genetic tests ordered lack sound medical reasoning and 30% of the cases studied show violation or neglect of guidelines and recommendations for diagnostic procedures with respect to genetic testing. In essence, the findings indicate a need for human genetic information among physicians. Their professional organisations are called upon to design and offer CME/CPD programmes in medical genetics to maintain and continually improve the quality of medical genetic care for patients with genetic conditions.
Frauengesundheitsforschung, Medizinische Fakultät, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster. nipperr@uni-muenster.de
Reinhardt Peter
RP
Nippert
Jörg
J
Schmidtke
D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D030342:Genetic Diseases, Inborn / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics; D033142:Genetic Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005858:Germany; D019983:Guideline Adherence; D006300:Health Services Misuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D007348:Insurance, Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D010819:Physician's Role; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D058996:Quality Improvement / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence