A study of GP referrals to a family cancer clinic for breast/ovarian cancer.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the appropriateness of primary care referrals to the Oxford Regional Genetics Service on account of a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer and to explore GPs' expectations following a referral.

METHODS

Fifty consecutive GP referrers were sent a questionnaire post-referral, and their referral letters were reviewed.

RESULTS

The study achieved a high response rate (94%) and showed that many GPs did not know which patients warrant referral to the genetics service and that they had unrealistic expectations of what happens at the clinic.

CONCLUSIONS

If GPs are to fulfil their gatekeeper role effectively, and possibly become more involved in the delivery of genetic services in the future, it is clear that they require further education in this area.