General practitioner attitudes to direct-to-consumer genetic testing in New Zealand.

AIM: The aim of the study was to explore the attitudes of general practitioners (GPs) towards direct to consumer (DTC) genetic testing and elicit their perceptions of the risks and benefits associated with DTC genetic testing.

METHOD: A postal questionnaire was mailed to a national random sample of 300 registered GPs from a list provided by the New Zealand Medical Council. Non-responders were followed up with an abridged survey questionnaire.

RESULTS: Responses were received from 38% of the GPs contacted. This consisted of 113 responses from the full questionnaire. The proportion of respondents who had heard about DTC genetic testing was 47.8%. Respondents considered convenience to be the greatest benefit for the individual requesting DTC genetic testing. Misunderstanding of results and inadequate provision of information were perceived to be the greatest risks associated. Lack of knowledge, experience and time were all considered barriers to GPs providing genetic counselling, and a genetic specialist was highlighted as the most appropriate to provide this. Respondents thought advertising of DTC genetic testing should be regulated in a similar manner to DTC advertising of prescription medicines. Clinical validity of tests and counselling were thought to be the most important aspects to be regulated.

CONCLUSIONS: As public access to DTC genetic testing increases, the role of GPs knowledge and training to reflect this growth will become increasingly more important. The 'Patient-Doctor-Counsellor Model of Delivery of Genetic Services' may be more appropriate for the provision of this service than the current model of direct access by patients. The involvement of health professionals in the DTC genetic testing process will aid patients in making informed health decisions, and ensure increased benefit from recent advances in genetic information.