Primary-care physicians' access to genetic specialists: an impediment to the routine use of genomic medicine?

PURPOSE: The field of genomic medicine is moving beyond the domain of medical specialties into general care. As a result, primary care practitioners (PCPs) will be faced with questions regarding the interpretation, use, and application of genetic and genomic testing. Several studies have demonstrated the variable knowledge of PCPs, but few have assessed PCPs access to genetic specialists and how that may influence test use. As part of a survey of PCPs on pharmacogenetic testing, we assessed PCP access to genetic specialists and its association with referrals and test ordering. METHODS: We conducted an online/mail survey of a national sample of PCPs in the U.S. RESULTS: Survey data indicate that PCP access to genetic specialists is limited, particularly to those practicing outside of academic medical centers, negatively impacting test ordering practices. CONCLUSION: Given the small number of clinical genetic specialists, collaborative approaches are needed to develop educational and clinical resources to prepare and guide the safe and appropriate use of testing by future and current general practitioners, respectively.

Duke Scholars

Author Susanne B Haga Medicine, General Internal Medicine