Development of an audit tool for genetic services

Area of Science:

• Medical Genetics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Demand for genetic services has increased, altering professional roles.
• Lack of appropriate audit tools hinders evaluation of genetic service delivery.
• Need for client-centered outcome assessment in genetic services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust assessment and audit tool for genetic services.
• To evaluate genetic services using client perspectives and factor analysis.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative data from published studies generated 57 statements.
• A questionnaire with these statements was sent to 133 clients of the Wales genetic service.
• Factor analysis was applied to 97 returned responses (73% response rate).

Main Results:

• Six key factors emerged from the client's perspective: enhanced understanding, positive psychological change, respect for autonomy, adaptation, disequilibrium, and value of contact.
• The developed tool identifies crucial outcome areas relevant to clients.

Conclusions:

• A refined audit tool, based on client accounts, is now available for evaluating genetic services.
• The tool will be validated for use in clinical audit and research contexts.
• Client perspectives are essential for assessing the effectiveness of genetic services.