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 referrer...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Family practice 2001-04, Vol.18 (2), p.131-134
Main Authors: Watson, Eila, Austoker, Joan, Lucassen, Anneke
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Breast cancer
Breast Neoplasms - diagnosis
Chi-Square Distribution
Clinics
England
Family histories
family history
Family Practice - standards
Female
General practitioners
Genetic screening
Humans
Ovarian cancer
Ovarian Neoplasms - diagnosis
Oxford Regional Health Authority
Patients
Physicians, Family
Practice Patterns, Physicians
primary care
Quality of Health Care
Referral and Consultation - standards
referral guidelines
Referrals
risk assessment
Surveys and Questionnaires
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Summary: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.
ISSN:0263-2136
1460-2229
DOI:10.1093/fampra/18.2.131