Are providers prepared for genomic medicine: Interpretation of Direct-to- Consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT) results and genetic self-efficacy by medical professionals

Scott McGrath, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Dhundy Raj Bastola, University of Nebraska at Omaha

https://public.tableau.com/profile/scott.mcgrath2257#!/

Abstract

Purpose:

Precision medicine is set to deliver a rich new data set of genomic information. However, the number of certified specialists in the United States is small, with only 4,244 genetic counselors and 1,302 clinical geneticists. We conducted a national survey of 264 medical professionals to evaluate how they interpret genetic test results, determine their confidence and self-efficacy of interpreting genetic test results with patients, and capture their opinions and experiences with direct-to- consumer genetic tests (DTC-GT).

Methods:

Participants were grouped into two categories, genetic specialists (genetic counselors and clinical geneticists) and medical providers (primary care, internists, physicians assistants, advanced nurse practitioners, etc.). The survey presented three genetic test report scenarios for interpretation.

Results:

The rates of correctly interpreting results were relatively high (74.4% for the providers compared to the specialist’s 83.4%) and age, prior genetic test consultation experience, and level of trust assigned to the reports were associated with higher correct interpretation rates. The self-selected efficacy and the level of preparedness to consult on a patient’s genetic results were higher for the specialists than the provider group.

Conclusion:

Specialists remain the best group to assist patients with DTC-GT, however, primary care providers may still provide accurate interpretation of test results when specialists are unavailable.

 
Mar 1st, 10:45 AM Mar 1st, 12:00 PM

Are providers prepared for genomic medicine: Interpretation of Direct-to- Consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT) results and genetic self-efficacy by medical professionals

UNO Criss Library

Purpose:

Precision medicine is set to deliver a rich new data set of genomic information. However, the number of certified specialists in the United States is small, with only 4,244 genetic counselors and 1,302 clinical geneticists. We conducted a national survey of 264 medical professionals to evaluate how they interpret genetic test results, determine their confidence and self-efficacy of interpreting genetic test results with patients, and capture their opinions and experiences with direct-to- consumer genetic tests (DTC-GT).

Methods:

Participants were grouped into two categories, genetic specialists (genetic counselors and clinical geneticists) and medical providers (primary care, internists, physicians assistants, advanced nurse practitioners, etc.). The survey presented three genetic test report scenarios for interpretation.

Results:

The rates of correctly interpreting results were relatively high (74.4% for the providers compared to the specialist’s 83.4%) and age, prior genetic test consultation experience, and level of trust assigned to the reports were associated with higher correct interpretation rates. The self-selected efficacy and the level of preparedness to consult on a patient’s genetic results were higher for the specialists than the provider group.

Conclusion:

Specialists remain the best group to assist patients with DTC-GT, however, primary care providers may still provide accurate interpretation of test results when specialists are unavailable.