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Design and implementation of genetic services within an HMO
1Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA.
Managed Care Interface
|July 6, 1998
Summary
Implementing genetic screening in large healthcare systems like Kaiser Permanente is key for preventive care. This involves complex processes from consent to follow-up, as detailed in Northern California genetic centers.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Preventive Healthcare
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Clinical application of genetic knowledge is crucial for effective preventive healthcare.
- Large integrated healthcare systems offer ideal settings for implementing genetic services.
- Comprehensive genetic screening programs require multifaceted infrastructure and processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the genetic services offered by Kaiser Permanente in Northern California.
- To highlight the components of a comprehensive genetic screening program within a large health maintenance organization (HMO).
Main Methods:
- The article summarizes existing genetic services provided by Kaiser Permanente.
- Focuses on the operational aspects within four subregional genetic centers.
- Describes the necessary components for program implementation: informed consent, testing, interpretation, counseling, follow-up, and database systems.
Main Results:
- Kaiser Permanente in Northern California operates four subregional genetic centers.
- These centers provide a comprehensive suite of genetic services.
- Successful implementation requires careful management of consent, testing, interpretation, counseling, and follow-up protocols.
Conclusions:
- Large HMOs are well-suited for clinical genetic applications.
- A structured approach to genetic screening is essential for successful integration into preventive healthcare.
- The described model provides a framework for genetic service delivery in similar healthcare settings.