PHYSICIAN KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS MOLECULAR-GENETIC (DNA) TESTING OF THEIR PATIENTS

Objective. To better define the knowledge and attitudes of practicing physicians about genetics; specifically molecular genetics. Further, t o examine differences between four practice specialties and to assess variables that affect both knowledge and attitudes. Design. A mail-in survey was sent to a random sample of non-geneticist physicians, with a second copy sent to non-responders. Questions included sociodemograp hic variables, sources of current knowledge and education in genetics, clinical experience with genetic disease, self-confidence in providin g genetic counseling, attitudes towards referring patients to a geneti c center, awareness of molecular genetic testing and attitudes towards its use in clinical practice and population screening. Setting. Respo nses were obtained from over 900 practicing physicians in the Canadian province of Ontario (population 10 million). Genetic services are pro vided through nine major and several outreach centers. Molecular diagn ostic services are provided through six provincially funded laboratori es. There are no direct costs to the patient for any genetic service. Participants. A random sample of family physicians, obstetricians, ped iatricians and internists was surveyed from both private and hospital based practices.Results and conclusion: Responses varied by specialty, years from graduation, gender, and type of practice. Pediatricians an d obstetricians were more knowledgeable about genetics, had more inter action with genetic services and were more supportive of their utility . A major proportion of physicians continue to rely upon undergraduate and medical school courses for knowledge, and the specialties showed different preferences for seeking information. A majority of physician s considered their knowledge of genetics to be adequate, but a minorit y were confident to provide genetic counseling for simple genetic scen arios. Relatively few had actually made use of DNA diagnostic services and there was relatively poor knowledge of what services were availab le.