Genetic technology and testing: perceptions of allied health professional education departmental chairs

This study elicited a preliminary report that reflected the perspectives and interest of health professional academicians in regard to the need for and appropriateness of genetic technology and testing information in their curricula. Of the original attainable sample of 135 departmental chairs of allied health professional education programs nationwide, 88 responded to a mailed questionnaire, for a response rate of 65%. Of the 88, 11 (13%) saw no need for such information to be provided for allied health students at the undergraduate or graduate level or for currently practicing allied health professionals (AHPs). Consequently, the elicited results were based on the responses of the other respondents who perceived a need for genetic technology and testing information to be made available to both AHP students (86% undergraduate and 92% graduate) and currently practicing AHPs (91%). In regard to preferences for required and/or recommended student exposures to and participation in genetic technology information and coursework, their responses varied.