Genetic Testing: Consent and Result Disclosure for Primary Care Providers

Area of Science:

• Medical Genetics
• Primary Care Medicine
• Genetic Counseling

Background:

• Traditionally, genetic counseling (pretest and posttest) is standard for genetic testing.
• Primary care providers (PCPs) are increasingly involved in ordering genetic tests.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide guidance for adapting genetic counseling models for PCPs.
• To define the appropriate level of PCP involvement in genetic testing counseling.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current genetic testing and counseling practices.
• Development of a framework for PCP involvement based on clinical factors.

Main Results:

• PCPs require specific training on genetic test information and counseling concepts.
• Collaboration with genetic counselors is beneficial for PCP preparation.
• PCP involvement should be tailored based on test indication, complexity, disorder management, and psychosocial risks.

Conclusions:

• Adapting genetic counseling for PCPs is feasible and necessary.
• PCPs can effectively provide essential pretest and posttest counseling with appropriate preparation.
• A tiered approach to PCP involvement ensures optimal patient care in genetic testing.