The value of genetic testing: beyond clinical utility

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Genetic testing offers diverse applications within healthcare.
• Understanding clinical leadership perspectives is crucial for adopting new diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the perceived value of genetic testing among Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) clinical leaders.
• To identify factors influencing the valuation of genetic testing.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based survey was distributed to VA clinical leaders nationwide.
• Respondents used a 5-point scale to rate the value of six distinct reasons for genetic testing.
• Bivariate and linear regression analyses examined associations between value ratings and various characteristics.

Main Results:

• Tests informing clinical management (58.6%) and disease prevention (56.4%) received the highest value ratings.
• Factors associated with higher value included a genomics-supportive culture, specialist care, and availability of testing resources and guidelines.
• Lower value was assigned to tests for established diagnoses (32.3%).

Conclusions:

• The perceived value of genetic testing varies significantly among clinical leaders within the VA system.
• Promoting understanding of genetic testing's broad utility, beyond clinical management, is essential for increasing its adoption.
• Engaging leadership can enhance the use of genetic tests to support patient-centered care.