Non-genetic health professionals’ attitude towards, knowledge of and skills in discussing and ordering genetic testing for hereditary cancer

Abstract

Non-genetic health professionals (NGHPs) have insufficient knowledge of cancer genetics, express educational needs and are unprepared to counsel their patients regarding their genetic test results. So far, it is unclear how NGHPs perceive their own communication skills. This study was undertaken to gain insight in their perceptions, attitudes and knowledge. Two publically accessible databases were used to invite NGHPs providing cancer genetic services to complete a questionnaire. The survey assessed: sociodemographic attributes, experience in ordering hereditary cancer genetic testing, attitude, knowledge, perception of communication skills (e.g. information giving, decision-making) and educational needs. Of all respondents (N = 49, response rate 11 %), most have a positive view of their own information giving (mean = 53.91, range 13–65) and decision making skills (64–77 % depending on topic). NGHPs feel responsible for enabling disease and treatment related behavior (89–91 %). However, 20–30 % reported difficulties managing patients’ emotions and did not see management of long-term emotions as their responsibility. Correct answers on knowledge questions ranged between 41 and 96 %. Higher knowledge was associated with more confidence in NGHPs’ own communication skills (rs = .33, p = 0.03). Although NGHPs have a positive view of their communication skills, they perceive more difficulties managing emotions. The association between less confidence in communication skills and lower knowledge level suggests awareness of knowledge gaps affects confidence. NGHPs might benefit from education about managing client emotions. Further research using observation of actual counselling consultations is needed to investigate the skills of this specific group of providers.

Knowledge and opinions regarding BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing among primary care physicians

“…The response rate for this survey was similar to previous physician knowledge studies (Cohn et al, ; Douma et al, ). There was no difference in response rates between the Ob/Gyn and Family Medicine groups.…”

“…Published studies surveying non‐genetic health professionals showed significant gaps and a wide range of knowledge regarding BRCA1/2 genetic testing and management among both specialists and primary care providers (Dhar et al, ; Pal et al, ; Teng & Spigelman, ; Wideroff et al, ). Even among non‐genetic health professionals who reported routinely providing cancer genetic services, there remained a need to continue education (Beitsch & Whitworth, ; Douma, Smets, & Allain, ).…”

Movement of Genetic Counselors from Clinical to Non‐clinical Positions: Identifying Driving Forces

“…With the push to incorporate personalized genomics into general practice, an understanding of genetics continues to be increasingly important in healthcare (Sperber et al 2017). However, previous studies have shown that medical students and non-genetics physicians may not have the genetics knowledge that is considered important for healthcare providers, nor are they comfortable ordering genetic tests (Baars et al 2005;Douma et al 2015;Marzuillo et al 2013;Salm et al 2014). This raises concerns about the quality of patient care that may be provided by nongenetics professionals (Bonadies et al 2014;Cragun et al 2014;Vadaparampil et al 2014).…”

The Clinical Sequencing Evidence-Generating Research Consortium: Integrating Genomic Sequencing in Diverse and Medically Underserved Populations

“…21 Challenges with managing the results from genomic sequencing tests have also been examined, especially for primary care or specialist providers who have limited training and experience in clinical genetics. 22,23 Educational programs exist for non-genetics health professionals and have been shown to be beneficial in enhancing knowledge, self-efficacy, and confidence, among other outcomes. 24 Yet, these educational programs might not significantly change practice.…”