Evaluation of a pamphlet on genetic counseling services for couples obtaining a marriage license

The results of this study suggest that a pamphlet on genetic counseling can be an effective method of providing information to couples obtaining a marriage license. The negative emotional effects of the pamphlet appear to be minimal and the recipients retained important knowledge and information. Questions not answered by this pilot study include 1) the effectiveness of leaving pamphlets on a counter in a well-designed display that would attract peoples' attention; 2) whether or not providing information on genetic services increases the referral rate to genetic centers; and 3) whether the difference in the reported prior knowledge level was an artifact or real.