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Patients' and physicians' perspectives on pharmacogenetic testing
Anja Rogausch1, Daniela Prause, Anne Schallenberg
1Georg-August-University Göttingen, Department of General Practice/Family Medicine, Humboldtallee 3837073 Göttingen, Germany. arogaus@gwdg.de
Pharmacogenomics
|December 16, 2005
Summary
Patient and physician acceptance is key for pharmacogenetic testing. While most see its value, concerns about privacy and potential discrimination exist, necessitating clear communication strategies.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenomics
- Medical Genetics
- Healthcare Acceptance
Background:
- Pharmacogenetic testing integration into routine care hinges on patient and physician acceptance.
- Limited empirical data exists on patient and physician views regarding pharmacogenetic testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate patient and physician perspectives on pharmacogenetic testing implications, specifically for asthma.
- To identify factors influencing expectations, hopes, and fears associated with pharmacogenetic testing.
Main Methods:
- Telephone interviews were conducted with patients (n=196) with asthma/COPD and general practitioners (GPs) (n=106) in Germany.
- Logistic regression analysis assessed determinants of attitudes toward pharmacogenetic testing.
Main Results:
- High patient (96%) and physician (52%) appreciation for pharmacogenetic tests in asthma.
- Patient concerns included unfavorable results (35%) and privacy violations (36%); younger patients were more hopeful.
- GP concerns focused on patient pressure for testing (72%) and insurance discrimination (61%).
Conclusions:
- Patient and GP concerns regarding psychosocial consequences, discrimination, and privacy differ.
- Developing targeted information for physicians and patients can mitigate unrealistic fears and hopes.