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Genetic services and attitudes in primary care pediatrics
Author(s) -
Rinke Michael L.,
MikatStevens Natalie,
Saul Robert,
Driscoll Amy,
Healy Jill,
Tarini Beth A.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
american journal of medical genetics part a
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.064
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1552-4833
pISSN - 1552-4825
DOI - 10.1002/ajmg.a.36339
Subject(s) - family medicine , competence (human resources) , medicine , genetic testing , primary care , family history , health care , genetic counseling , medical genetics , pediatrics , psychology , genetics , economics , economic growth , social psychology , biology , gene , radiology
Given the integral role primary care pediatricians (PCPs) play in caring for children with genetic conditions, we aimed to identify current practices of PCPs regarding genetic patients, their attitudes toward genetic medical care and their choices regarding family history taking. We conducted an on‐line survey of a national convenience sample of PCPs associated with the American Academy of Pediatrics' Quality Improvement Innovation Networks. Eighty‐eight respondents (29% response rate) were included in the analysis. Seventy‐four (86%) reported ordering genetic based tests three or less times annually. Eleven (13%) strongly agreed that they discuss with patients the potential risks, benefits, and limitations of genetic tests. Forty‐three (49%) agreed or strongly agreed that they feel competent in providing healthcare to patients related to genetics and genomics. Perceived competence was not associated with more recent training ( P = 0.29), number of genetic tests ordered annually ( P = 0.84) or mean number of weekly patient encounters ( P = 0.15). 100% of participants stated that taking a family history is important. 27 (31%) agreed or strongly agreed that they gather a minimum of a three‐generation family history. Forty‐one of the 63 participants with an electronic health record (65%) reported their system was fair or poor in its ability to easily capture a three‐generation family history. PCPs interested in quality improvement reported variation in care practices for children with genetic diseases and a majority did not feel competent to provide genetic related healthcare. Research should focus on improving the care and diagnosis of children with genetic disorders and enhanced integration of genetic medicine into routine primary preventative care. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.