Primary care physicians' utilization and perceptions of genetics services

Purpose: To document primary care physicians' utilization and perceptions o f genetics services. Methods: A randomized survey of physicians in the Paci fic Northwest. Results: The greatest factor prompting a genetics referral w as the patient's interest in the evaluation, and the most common reason not to obtain a consultation was the perception that it was of no benefit to t he patient. Genetics consultation was rarely sought for a family history of cancer or for deafness, polycystic kidney disease, or congenital heart dis ease. Even when uncertain about relative risk, physicians usually counseled a patient themselves rather than referring to a specialist. Conclusion: Pr imary care physicians need more education about the genetic component of ma ny diseases to provide directly and to refer appropriately for genetics ser vices.