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Fisher ER, Cragun D, Dedrick RF, Lumpkins CY, Ramírez M, Kaphingst KA, Petersen A, MacFarlane IM, Redlinger-Grosse K, Shire A, Culhane-Pera KA, Zierhut HA. Linking genetic counseling communication skills to patient outcomes and experiences using a community-engagement and provider-engagement approach: research protocol for the GC-PRO mixed methods sequential explanatory study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e085472. [PMID: 38631834 PMCID: PMC11029319 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-085472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In over 50 years since the genetic counseling (GC) profession began, a systematic study of GC communication skills and patient-reported outcomes in actual sessions across multiple clinical specialties has never been conducted. To optimize GC quality and improve efficiency of care, the field must first be able to comprehensively measure GC skills and determine which skills are most critical to achieving positive patient experiences and outcomes. This study aims to characterise GC communication skills using a novel and pragmatic measure and link variations in communication skills to patient-reported outcomes, across clinical specialties and with patients from diverse backgrounds in the USA. Our community-engagement and provider-engagement approach is crucial to develop recommendations for quality, culturally informed GC care, which are greatly needed to improve GC practice. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A mixed methods, sequential explanatory design will be used to collect and analyze: audio-recorded GC sessions in cancer, cardiac, and prenatal/reproductive genetic indications; pre-visit and post-visit quantitative surveys capturing patient experiences and outcomes and post-visit qualitative interview data. A novel, practical checklist will measure GC communication skills. Coincidence analysis will identify patterns of GC skills that are consistent with high scores on patient-reported measures. Two-level, multilevel models will be used to evaluate how GC communication skills and other session/patient characteristics predict patient-reported outcomes. Four community advisory boards (CABs) and a genetic counselor advisory board will inform the study design and analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the single Institutional Review Board of the University of Minnesota. This research poses no greater than minimal risk to participants. Results from this study will be shared through national and international conferences and through community-based dissemination as guided by the study's CABs. A lay summary will also be disseminated to all participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena R Fisher
- Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Deborah Cragun
- University of South Florida College of Public Health, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Robert F Dedrick
- Educational and Psychological Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Crystal Y Lumpkins
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Communication, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Mariana Ramírez
- JUNTOS Center for Advancing Latino Health, University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Population Health, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Kimberly A Kaphingst
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Communication, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Ashley Petersen
- University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ian M MacFarlane
- Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Krista Redlinger-Grosse
- Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Kathleen A Culhane-Pera
- SoLaHmo Partnership for Health and Wellness, Community-University Health Care Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Heather A Zierhut
- Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Martin SC, Scott AM, Stone AM. Women's Metaphors About BRCA Gene Testing and How They Can Inform Health Communication Theory and Practice. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:603-615. [PMID: 36775863 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2178051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Genetic testing can detect whether an individual carries a harmful variant in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 (Breast Cancer 1 or 2) gene which, if present, drastically increases a woman's risk for breast and ovarian cancer. The experience of BRCA gene testing can be an emotionally laden process yielding significant uncertainty. In this study, we examined women's experiences of BRCA gene testing by exploring how participants communicatively framed and made sense of this process through the use of metaphors. Comparing uncertain and unfamiliar experiences to familiar references through metaphor can help people in challenging health-related situations with sense-making and communicating complex emotions. Furthermore, metaphors can be employed as a therapeutic tool by health care professionals, but their use has not often been studied regarding experiences of genetic testing, including BRCA gene testing. We conducted in-depth interviews with 42 women who have undergone BRCA gene testing (regardless of results), and analyzed data using constant comparative techniques. Eight categories of metaphors that women used surrounding BRCA gene testing were evident in the data, including those related to (a) knowledge is power; (b) gambling; (c) a journey; (d) a rollercoaster; (e) battle, disaster, or wreckage; (f) Pandora's box or a can of worms; (g) doom and gloom; and (h) the release or placing of a weight. Results enhance our understanding of women's experiences related to the uncertainty-inducing process of BRCA gene testing and lead to valuable theoretical implications and practical recommendations, including regarding the potential use of metaphors in patient-provider communication about BRCA genetic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer C Martin
- Department of Human Communication Studies, California State University, Fullerton
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Hurtado-de-Mendoza A, Reyna VF, Wolfe CR, Gómez-Trillos S, Sutton AL, Brennan A, Sheppard VB. Adapting a Theoretically-Based intervention for underserved clinical populations at increased risk for hereditary Cancer: Lessons learned from the BRCA-Gist experience. Prev Med Rep 2022; 28:101887. [PMID: 35855922 PMCID: PMC9287635 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of GCT in underserved diverse populations is suboptimal. Translational genomics research has been conducted with mostly NHW. Adapting EBIs can enhance the reach of EBI to underserved diverse populations. This paper describes the adaptation BRCA Gist, for at-risk Blacks and Latinas. Findings illustrate the need to integrate fidelity and adaptation considerations.
Background Minorities at increased risk for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) frequently have low awareness and use of genetic counseling and testing (GCT). Making sure that evidence-based interventions (EBIs) reach minorities is key to reduce disparities. BRCA-Gist is a theory-informed EBI that has been proven to be efficacious in mostly non-Hispanic White non-clinical populations. We conducted formative work to inform adaptations of BRCA-Gist for use in clinical settings with at-risk diverse women. Methods Genetic counselors (n = 20) were recruited nationally; at-risk Latinas and Blacks (n = 21) were recruited in Washington DC and Virginia. They completed the BRCA-Gist EBI between April 2018 – September 2019. Participants completed an acceptability scale and an interview to provide suggestions about implementation adaptations. T-tests for independent samples compared acceptability between at-risk women and genetic counselors. The Consensual Qualitative Research Framework was used to code adaptation suggestions. Suggested adaptations were discussed by a multidisciplinary team to integrate fidelity and adaptation considerations. Results At-risk women had a significantly higher acceptability (M = 4.17, SD = 0.47 vs. M = 3.24, SD = 0.64; p = 0.000; scale 1–5) and satisfaction scores (M = 8.3, SD = 1.3 vs. M = 4.2, SD = 2.0; p = 0.000; scale 1–10) than genetic counselors. Genetic counselors and at-risk women suggested contextual (e.g. format) and content (e.g. shortening) adaptations to enhance the fit of BRCA-Gist for diverse clinical populations. Conclusions Findings illustrate the process of integrating fidelity and adaptation considerations to ensure that EBIs retain their core components while enhancing the fit to minoritized clinical populations. Future studies will test the efficacy of the adapted BRCA-Gist in a Randomized Controlled Trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Hurtado-de-Mendoza
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.,Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Hereditary Cancer and Clinical Cancer Genomics, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Valerie F Reyna
- Human Neuroscience Institute, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Sara Gómez-Trillos
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.,Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Hereditary Cancer and Clinical Cancer Genomics, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Arnethea L Sutton
- Department of Health Behavior Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University, VA, USA
| | - Ashleigh Brennan
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Vanessa B Sheppard
- Department of Health Behavior Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University, VA, USA
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4
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Zhang Y, Yi S, Trace CB, Williams-Brown MY. Understanding the Information Needs of Patients With Ovarian Cancer Regarding Genetic Testing to Inform Intervention Design: Interview Study. JMIR Cancer 2022; 8:e31263. [PMID: 35133282 PMCID: PMC8864522 DOI: 10.2196/31263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Experts in gynecological cancer care recommend that all patients with invasive or high-grade ovarian cancer (OC) undergo genetic testing. However, even patients who intend to take or have taken genetic tests have many unaddressed information needs regarding genetic testing. Existing genetic counseling falls short of adequately addressing this challenge. Objective This study aims to investigate the genetic testing–related information needs of patients with OC to inform the design of interactive technology-based interventions that can enhance communication of genetic testing information to patients. Methods We interviewed 20 patients with OC who had taken genetic tests and gathered genetic testing–related messages from an active OC web-based community. The interview transcripts and web-based community messages were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis method. Results Data analyses produced a comprehensive taxonomy of the genetic testing–related information needs of patients with OC, which included five major topic clusters: knowledge of genetic testing as a medical test, genetic testing process, genetic testing implications for patients, implications for family members, and medical terminology. Findings indicated that patients wanted to receive information that was relevant, understandable, concise, usable, appropriate, sympathetic, and available when needed. They also preferred various channels to receive information, including internet-based technologies, print, and conversations with health care providers. Conclusions Patients with OC need a range of information to address the uncertainties and challenges that they encounter while taking genetic tests. Their preferences for channels to receive information vary widely. A multichannel information delivery solution that combines both provider-led and peer-to-peer education models is needed to supplement existing genetic counseling to effectively meet the genetic testing–related information needs of patients with OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- School of Information, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Center for Health Communication, Moody College of Communication and Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Siqi Yi
- School of Information, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Ciaran B Trace
- School of Information, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Center for Health Communication, Moody College of Communication and Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Marian Yvette Williams-Brown
- Department of Women's Health, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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Zale A, Zierhut H, Dean M, Berry DK, Racobaldo M, Cragun D. Revising the FOCUS framework through a qualitative study assessing self-reported counseling skills of genetic counselors. J Genet Couns 2022; 31:868-886. [PMID: 35132718 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Frameworks have been developed to help conceptualize clinical genetic counseling (GC), and observational studies have helped understand the process and content of GC sessions. However, additional research is needed to identify GC skills (behaviors or strategies) that practicing genetic counselors report consciously using to meet certain GC goals and determine what common terminology, if any, is being used to describe the various skills. Nineteen practicing genetic counselors in prenatal, pediatric, or cancer specialties were interviewed to elicit how they achieve session goals. Interview recordings were transcribed, coded thematically, and categorized using process categories from the communication strategy domain of the Framework for Outcomes in Clinical Communication Services (FOCUS). Reported skills largely fit within FOCUS, though findings prompted minor modifications of several FOCUS process categories and consolidation of the categories from 13 into 10. Although genetic counselor respondents reported a broad range of strategies and behaviors, they rarely had terms for skills they described. Results reveal concrete examples of GC skills, provide evidence for refinement of FOCUS, and highlight the need for establishing common terminology to describe these skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Zale
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Orlando Health, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Heather Zierhut
- Department of Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Marleah Dean
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA.,H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Darcy K Berry
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Melissa Racobaldo
- Division of Genetics and Metabolism, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Deborah Cragun
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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Gregory G, Das Gupta K, Meiser B, Barlow-Stewart K, Geelan-Small P, Kaur R, Scheepers-Joynt M, McInerny S, Taylor S, Antill Y, Salmon L, Smyth C, Young MA, James PA, Yanes T. Polygenic risk in familial breast cancer: Changing the dynamics of communicating genetic risk. J Genet Couns 2021; 31:120-129. [PMID: 34223688 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary breast cancer is associated with known genetic changes: either variants that affect function in a few rare genes or an ever-increasing number of common genomic risk variants, which combine to produce a cumulative effect, known as a polygenic risk (PR) score. While the clinical validity and utility of PR scores are still being determined, the communication of PR is a new challenge for genetic health professionals. This study investigated how PR scores are discussed in the familial cancer clinic compared with a previous study assessing the communication of monogenic risk (MR) for breast cancer. Sixty-five PR consultations between genetic health professionals and women at familial risk of breast cancer were audiotaped, transcribed, and coded using a methodology adapted from the MR study. Analysis of consultations shows that while there were similarities in communicating MR and PR, the complexity and novelty of the polygenic information influenced the style of counseling used by genetic health professionals toward a teaching model of genetic counseling, rather than a patient-centered approach. In particular, compared to MR consultations, in PR consultations significantly fewer counselees (a) were asked about their reasons for attending genetic counseling; or (b) had their information preferences, decision-making style, medical knowledge, understanding, or concerns checked. In conclusion, it is anticipated that PR scores will become part of standard clinical practice. Thus, it will be important for all genetic health professionals to be appropriately educated so that they can tailor their communication to meet patient needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Gregory
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kuheli Das Gupta
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bettina Meiser
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kristine Barlow-Stewart
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Geelan-Small
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rajneesh Kaur
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maatje Scheepers-Joynt
- Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Simone McInerny
- Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Shelby Taylor
- Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Yoland Antill
- Familial Cancer Clinic, Cabrini Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lucinda Salmon
- Clinical Genetics Service, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Courtney Smyth
- Familial Cancer Clinic, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mary-Anne Young
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul A James
- Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne VIC, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tatiane Yanes
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Dermatology Research Centre, Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Biesecker BB, Lillie SE, Amendola LM, Donohue KE, East KM, Foreman AKM, Gilmore MJ, Greve V, Liangolou B, O'Daniel JM, Odgis JA, Rego S, Rolf B, Scollon S, Suckiel SA, Zepp J, Joseph G. A review and definition of 'usual care' in genetic counseling trials to standardize use in research. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:42-50. [PMID: 33278053 PMCID: PMC7882019 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The descriptor 'usual care' refers to standard or routine care. Yet, no formal definition exists. The need to define what constitutes usual care arises in clinical research. Often one arm in a trial represents usual care in comparison with a novel intervention. Accordingly, usual care in genetic counseling research appears predominantly in randomized controlled trials. Recent standards for reporting genetic counseling research call for standardization, but do not address usual care. We (1) inventoried all seven studies in the Clinical Sequencing Evidence-Generating Consortium (CSER) about how genetic counseling was conceptualized, conducted, and whether a usual care arm was involved; (2) conducted a review of published randomized control trials in genetic counseling, comparing how researchers describe usual care groups; and (3) reviewed existing professionally endorsed definitions and practice descriptions of genetic counseling. We found wide variation in the content and delivery of usual care. Descriptions frequently detailed the content of usual care, most often noting assessment of genetic risk factors, collecting family histories, and offering testing. A minority included addressing psychological concerns or the risks versus benefits of testing. Descriptions of how care was delivered were vague except for mode and type of clinician, which varied. This significant variation, beyond differences expected among subspecialties, reduces the validity and generalizability of genetic counseling research. Ideally, research reflects clinical practice so that evidence generated can be used to improve clinical outcomes. To address this objective, we propose a definition of usual care in genetic counseling research that merges common elements from the National Society of Genetic Counselors' practice definition, the Reciprocal Engagement Model, and the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counselors' practice-based competencies. Promoting consistent execution of usual care in the design of genetic counseling trials can lead to more consistency in representing clinical care and facilitate the generation of evidence to improve it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara B Biesecker
- Genomics, Bioinformatics and Translation, RTI International, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sarah E Lillie
- Center for Communication Science, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Laura M Amendola
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Katherine E Donohue
- Institute for Genomic Health, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kelly M East
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | | | - Marian J Gilmore
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Kaiser Permanente - Center for Health Research, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Veronica Greve
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | | | | | - Jacqueline A Odgis
- Institute for Genomic Health, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shannon Rego
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bradley Rolf
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sarah Scollon
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sabrina A Suckiel
- Institute for Genomic Health, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jamilyn Zepp
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Kaiser Permanente - Center for Health Research, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Galen Joseph
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Scollon S, Majumder MA, Bergstrom K, Wang T, McGuire AL, Robinson JO, Gutierrez AM, Lee CH, Hilsenbeck SG, Plon SE, Parsons DW, Street RL. Exome sequencing disclosures in pediatric cancer care: Patterns of communication among oncologists, genetic counselors, and parents. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2019; 102:680-686. [PMID: 30482469 PMCID: PMC6440863 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine communication patterns and behaviors during disclosure of exome sequencing (ES) results to parents of pediatric cancer patients, and describe common themes in parental communication. METHODS Using mixed methods, we analyzed transcripts of sessions where parents of pediatric cancer patients received ES results from an oncologist and genetic counselor. Seventy-six transcripts were analyzed for frequency of clinician information-giving, partnering-supportive talk, and active parent participation. A subset of 40 transcripts were analyzed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS Disclosures consisted mostly of clinician talk (84% of total talk), which was focused on providing information (62% of clinicians' utterances) with occasional partnering-supportive talk (7% of clinicians' utterances). Most parents assumed a passive, listening role (16% of total talk). Themes in parental communication included expressing relief and the significance of an answer, concern about sharing results and responsibility for inheritance, and seeking clarification of health implications of results. CONCLUSION Our finding of low levels of active parent participation during ES disclosures highlights the need to improve patient/parent engagement and understanding in a genetic setting. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Clinician communication strategies that could encourage parent participation and understanding include checking for parent understanding, partnership-building, and tailoring ES discussions to address parent concerns and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Scollon
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Mary A Majumder
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Suite 310D, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Katie Bergstrom
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Tao Wang
- Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 6620 Main St., Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Amy L McGuire
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Suite 310D, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Jill O Robinson
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Suite 310D, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Amanda M Gutierrez
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Suite 310D, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Caroline H Lee
- Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, United States.
| | - Susan G Hilsenbeck
- Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 6620 Main St., Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Sharon E Plon
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States; Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 6620 Main St., Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - D Williams Parsons
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Richard L Street
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, 6620 Main St., Houston, TX 77030, United States; Department of Communication, Texas A&M University, TAMU 4234, College Station, TX 77843, United States; Center for Innovation in Healthcare Quality, Effectiveness, & Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2450 Holcombe Blvd., Suite 01Y, Houston, TX 77021, United States.
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9
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Isenberg SR, Aslakson RA, Dionne-Odom JN, Clegg Smith K, Singh S, Larson S, Bridges JFP, Smith TJ, Wolff JL, Roter DL. Family companions' involvement during pre-surgical consent visits for major cancer surgery and its relationship to visit communication and satisfaction. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2018; 101:1066-1074. [PMID: 29402574 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between family companion presence during pre-surgical visits to discuss major cancer surgery and patient-provider communication and satisfaction. METHODS Secondary analysis of 61 pre-surgical visit recordings with eight surgical oncologists at an academic tertiary care hospital using the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS). Surgeons, patients, and companions completed post-visit satisfaction questionnaires. Poisson and logistic regression models assessed differences in communication and satisfaction when companions were present vs. absent. RESULTS There were 46 visits (75%) in which companions were present, and 15 (25%) in which companions were absent. Companion communication was largely emotional and facilitative, as measured by RIAS. Companion presence was associated with more surgeon talk (IRR 1.29, p = 0.006), and medical information-giving (IRR 1.41, p = 0.001). Companion presence was associated with less disclosure of lifestyle/psychosocial topics by patients (IRR 0.55, p = 0.037). In adjusted analyses, companions' presence was associated with lower levels of patient-centeredness (IRR 0.77, p 0.004). There were no differences in patient or surgeon satisfaction based on companion presence. CONCLUSION Companions' presence during pre-surgical visits was associated with patient-surgeon communication but was not associated with patient or surgeon satisfaction. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Future work is needed to develop interventions to enhance patient-companion-provider interactions in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarina R Isenberg
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care and Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, 60 Murray Street, 4th floor, Box 13, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3L9, Canada.
| | - Rebecca A Aslakson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - James N Dionne-Odom
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL MT412 K, United States.
| | - Katherine Clegg Smith
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - Sarabdeep Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 401 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21287, United States.
| | - Susan Larson
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - John F P Bridges
- Department of Health, Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - Thomas J Smith
- Departments of Medicine and Oncology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, 601 N. Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, United States.
| | - Jennifer L Wolff
- Department of Health, Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - Debra L Roter
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
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Redlinger-Grosse K, Veach PM, LeRoy BS, Zierhut H. Elaboration of the Reciprocal-Engagement Model of Genetic Counseling Practice: a Qualitative Investigation of Goals and Strategies. J Genet Couns 2017. [PMID: 28643080 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0114-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
As the genetic counseling field evolves, a comprehensive model of practice is critical. The Reciprocal-Engagement Model (REM) consists of 5 tenets and 17 goals. Lacking in the REM, however, are well-articulated counselor strategies and behaviors. The purpose of the present study was to further elaborate and provide supporting evidence for the REM by identifying and mapping genetic counseling strategies to the REM goals. A secondary, qualitative analysis was conducted on data from two prior studies: 1) focus group results of genetic counseling outcomes (Redlinger-Grosse et al., Journal of Genetic Counseling, 2015); and 2) genetic counselors' examples of successful and unsuccessful genetic counseling sessions (Geiser et al. 2009). Using directed content analysis, 337 unique strategies were extracted from focus group data. A Q-sort of the 337 strategies yielded 15 broader strategy domains that were then mapped to the successful and unsuccessful session examples. Differing prevalence of strategy domains identified in successful sessions versus the prevalence of domains identified as lacking in unsuccessful sessions provide further support for the REM goals. The most prevalent domains for successful sessions were Information Giving and Use Psychosocial Skills and Strategies; and for unsuccessful sessions, Information Giving and Establish Working Alliance. Identified strategies support the REM's reciprocal nature, especially with regard to addressing patients' informational and psychosocial needs. Patients' contributions to success (or lack thereof) of sessions was also noted, supporting a REM tenet that individual characteristics and the counselor-patient relationship are central to processes and outcomes. The elaborated REM could be used as a framework for certain graduate curricular objectives, and REM components could also inform process and outcomes research studies to document and further characterize genetic counselor strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista Redlinger-Grosse
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Patricia McCarthy Veach
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Bonnie S LeRoy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Heather Zierhut
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Guan Y, Roter DL, Erby LH, Wolff JL, Gitlin LN, Roberts JS, Green RC, Christensen KD. Disclosing genetic risk of Alzheimer's disease to cognitively impaired patients and visit companions: Findings from the REVEAL Study. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2017; 100:927-935. [PMID: 28012682 PMCID: PMC5400683 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the impact of genetic information on Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk communication to patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their visit companions. METHODS Participants of the fourth REVEAL Study trial were randomized to receive AD risk assessments with or without genotype results. We coded 79 audio recorded risk disclosure sessions with the Roter Interaction Analysis System. Multilevel analyses explored differences in communication when disclosed risks were based on age and MCI diagnosis alone or in addition to APOE genotype status. RESULTS The addition of genotype results diminished the patient-centered nature of the sessions (p<0.001). When ε4 positive relative to ε4 negative results were disclosed, visit companions were more verbally active (p<0.05), disclosed more medical information (p<0.05), were more positive verbally and non-verbally (p<0.05) and were more proactive in setting the visit agenda (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Delivery of complex genetic risk information reduces the patient-centeredness of disclosure sessions. Visit companions are more actively engaged in session communication when patients are at increased genetic risk for AD. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS AD risk discussions can be improved by supporting the positive role of visit companions and addressing the challenges inherent in the delivery of complex genetic information in a patient-centered manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Guan
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Debra L Roter
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lori H Erby
- Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L Wolff
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura N Gitlin
- Department of Community-Public Health, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J Scott Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Robert C Green
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Partners Personalized Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kurt D Christensen
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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12
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McArthur M, Fitzgerald J. Evaluation of a Communication Skills Training Program for Companion-Animal Veterinarians: A Pilot Study Using RIAS Coding. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2016; 43:111-125. [PMID: 26966985 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.0215-016r2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Effective veterinarian communication skills training and the related key outcomes provided the impetus for this study. We implemented a pre-experimental pre-test/post-test single-group design with a sample of 13 veterinarians and their 71 clients to evaluate the effects of a 6.5-hour communication skills intervention for veterinarians. Consultations were audiotaped and analyzed with the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS). Clients completed the Consultation and Relational Care Measure, a global satisfaction scale, a Parent Medical Interview Satisfaction Scale, and the Adherence Intent measure. Veterinarians completed a communication confidence measure and a workshop satisfaction scale. Contrary to expectation, neither veterinarian communication skills nor their confidence improved post-training. Despite client satisfaction and perceptions of veterinarians' relational communication skills not increasing, clients nevertheless reported an increased intent to adhere to veterinarian recommendations. This result is important because client adherence is critical to managing and enhancing the health and well-being of animals. The results of the study suggest that while the workshop was highly regarded, either the duration of the training or practice opportunities were insufficient or a booster session was required to increase veterinarian confidence and integration of new skills. Future research should utilize a randomized control study design to investigate the appropriate intervention with which to achieve change in veterinarian communication skills. Such change could translate to more effective interactions in veterinarians' daily lives.
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13
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Kelly KM, Ellington L, Schoenberg N, Jackson T, Dickinson S, Porter K, Leventhal H, Andrykowski M. Genetic counseling content: How does it impact health behavior? J Behav Med 2015; 38:766-76. [PMID: 25533642 PMCID: PMC4478279 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-014-9613-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Women with hereditary breast-ovarian cancer face decisions about screening (transvaginal ultrasound, CA125, mammography, breast exams) and proactive (before cancer) or reactive (after cancer) surgery (oophorectomy, mastectomy). The content of genetic counseling and its relation to these key health behaviors is largely unexamined. Ashkenazi Jewish women (n = 78) were surveyed through the process of genetic testing and had audiorecorded counseling sessions available for Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count analysis. Proportions for participant and counselor cognitive and affective content during sessions were used as primary predictor variables in linear mixed models for change in intentions for screening and treatment and in self-reported screening. Cognitive and affective content were important predictors of behavior. Counselor cognitive content was associated with ovarian screening. An interaction effect also emerged for CA-125, such that counselor cognitive content plus participant cognitive content or counselor affective content were associated with more screening. Teasing out the factors in risk communication that impact decision-making are critical, and affect from a risk communicator can spur action, such as cancer screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly M Kelly
- Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center and School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, West Virginia University, PO Box 9510, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.
| | - Lee Ellington
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nancy Schoenberg
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Thomas Jackson
- Department of Statistics, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | | | - Kyle Porter
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Howard Leventhal
- Institute for Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Andrykowski
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Paul J, Metcalfe S, Stirling L, Wilson B, Hodgson J. Analyzing communication in genetic consultations--a systematic review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2015; 98:15-33. [PMID: 25312331 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically review studies that have analyzed communication within medical consultations involving genetic specialists and report on their findings and design. METHODS Drawing from PRISMA and appropriate guidelines for reviewing qualitative research, a systematic search of seven databases was conducted, followed by selection of studies for inclusion based on a set of criteria. Three authors conducted data extraction and narrative synthesis. RESULTS Twenty-two studies were identified and were heterogeneous in setting, design, and methods, with many including limited descriptions of health professionals involved. Despite this variability, studies generally pursued the following three main objectives: searching for structural patterns within consultations, investigating communication and genetic counseling concepts, and linking process with input- and outcome-measures. Structural patterns identified included clinician dialog dominating consultations, and talk being mostly biomedical. Counseling and communication concepts investigated were: risk communication, the negotiation of power and knowledge, and adherence to genetic counseling ideals. Attempts to link consultation data to input- or outcome-measures were often unsuccessful. CONCLUSION More interdisciplinary research, grounded in appropriate theoretical frameworks, is needed to explore inherent complexities in this setting. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Findings from this review can be used to guide the design of future research into the process of genetic consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Paul
- Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; School of Languages and Linguistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sylvia Metcalfe
- Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lesley Stirling
- School of Languages and Linguistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brenda Wilson
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jan Hodgson
- Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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15
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Bradbury AR, Patrick-Miller L, Long J, Powers J, Stopfer J, Forman A, Rybak C, Mattie K, Brandt A, Chambers R, Chung WK, Churpek J, Daly MB, Digiovanni L, Farengo-Clark D, Fetzer D, Ganschow P, Grana G, Gulden C, Hall M, Kohler L, Maxwell K, Merrill S, Montgomery S, Mueller R, Nielsen S, Olopade O, Rainey K, Seelaus C, Nathanson KL, Domchek SM. Development of a tiered and binned genetic counseling model for informed consent in the era of multiplex testing for cancer susceptibility. Genet Med 2014; 17:485-92. [PMID: 25297947 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2014.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Multiplex genetic testing, including both moderate- and high-penetrance genes for cancer susceptibility, is associated with greater uncertainty than traditional testing, presenting challenges to informed consent and genetic counseling. We sought to develop a new model for informed consent and genetic counseling for four ongoing studies. METHODS Drawing from professional guidelines, literature, conceptual frameworks, and clinical experience, a multidisciplinary group developed a tiered-binned genetic counseling approach proposed to facilitate informed consent and improve outcomes of cancer susceptibility multiplex testing. RESULTS In this model, tier 1 "indispensable" information is presented to all patients. More specific tier 2 information is provided to support variable informational needs among diverse patient populations. Clinically relevant information is "binned" into groups to minimize information overload, support informed decision making, and facilitate adaptive responses to testing. Seven essential elements of informed consent are provided to address the unique limitations, risks, and uncertainties of multiplex testing. CONCLUSION A tiered-binned model for informed consent and genetic counseling has the potential to address the challenges of multiplex testing for cancer susceptibility and to support informed decision making and adaptive responses to testing. Future prospective studies including patient-reported outcomes are needed to inform how to best incorporate multiplex testing for cancer susceptibility into clinical practice.Genet Med 17 6, 485-492.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Bradbury
- 1] Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA [2] Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA [3] Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Linda Patrick-Miller
- 1] Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA [2] Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jessica Long
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Powers
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jill Stopfer
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Andrea Forman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christina Rybak
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kristin Mattie
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, New Jersey, USA
| | - Amanda Brandt
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rachelle Chambers
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Wendy K Chung
- 1] Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA [2] Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jane Churpek
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mary B Daly
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Laura Digiovanni
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dana Farengo-Clark
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, New Jersey, USA
| | - Dominique Fetzer
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Pamela Ganschow
- Department of Internal Medicine, John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Generosa Grana
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, New Jersey, USA
| | - Cassandra Gulden
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael Hall
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lynne Kohler
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kara Maxwell
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shana Merrill
- Department of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan Montgomery
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rebecca Mueller
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Nielsen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Olufunmilayo Olopade
- 1] Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA [2] Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kimberly Rainey
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christina Seelaus
- Department of Internal Medicine, John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Katherine L Nathanson
- 1] Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA [2] Department of Translational Medicine and Human Genetics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan M Domchek
- 1] Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA [2] Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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16
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Albada A, Ausems MGEM, van Dulmen S. Counselee participation in follow-up breast cancer genetic counselling visits and associations with achievement of the preferred role, cognitive outcomes, risk perception alignment and perceived personal control. Soc Sci Med 2014; 116:178-86. [PMID: 25016325 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Revised: 06/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to assess the counselee participation in the follow-up visits, compared to the first visits, for breast cancer genetic counselling and to explore associations with counselees' achievement of their preferred role in decision making, information recall, knowledge, risk perception alignment and perceived personal control. First and follow-up visits for breast cancer genetic counselling of 96 counselees of a Dutch genetics center were videotaped (2008-2010). Counselees completed questionnaires before counselling (T1), after the follow-up visit (T2) and one year after the follow-up visit (T3). Consultations were rated with the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS). Counselee participation was measured as the percentage of counselee utterances, the percentage of counselee questions and the interactivity (number of turns per minute). Follow-up visits had higher levels of counselee participation than first visits as assessed by the percentage of counselee talk, the interactivity and counselee questions. More counselee talk in the follow-up visit was related to higher achievement of the preferred role (T2) and higher perceived personal control (T3). Higher interactivity in the follow-up visit was related to lower achievement of the preferred role in decision making and lower information recall (T2). There were no significant associations with the percentage of questions asked and none of the participation measures was related to knowledge, risk perception alignment and perceived personal control (T2). In line with the interviewing admonishment 'talk less and listen more', the only assessment of counselee participation associated to better outcomes is the percentage of counselee talk. High interactivity might be associated with lower recall in breast cancer genetic counselees who are generally highly educated. However, this study was limited by a small sample size and a heterogeneous group of counselees. Research is needed on the interactions causing interactivity and its relationships with involvement in decision making and recall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akke Albada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 AB Utrecht, The Netherlands; NIVEL (Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research), Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Margreet G E M Ausems
- Department of Medical Genetics, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 AB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra van Dulmen
- NIVEL (Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research), Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Health Sciences, Buskerud University College, Drammen, Norway
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17
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Butrick MN, Vanhusen L, Leventhal KG, Hooker GW, Nusbaum R, Peshkin BN, Salehizadeh Y, Pavlick J, Schwartz MD, Graves KD. Discussing race-related limitations of genomic testing for colon cancer risk: implications for education and counseling. Soc Sci Med 2014; 114:26-37. [PMID: 24908172 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2013] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This study examines communication about limitations of genomic results interpretation for colon cancer risk during education and counseling of minority participants. As part of a larger study conducted from 2010 to 2012, participants recruited from a large primary care clinic were offered testing for a research panel of 3 genomic markers (single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs) for colorectal cancer risk. Genetic counselors conducted pre- and post-test sessions which included discussion of limitations of result interpretation due to the lack of racial/ethnic diversity in research populations from which risk data are derived. Sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analyzed. Many participants did not respond directly to this limitation. Among the participants that responded directly to this race-related limitation, many responses were negative. However, a few participants connected the limited minority information about SNPs with the importance of their current research participation. Genetic counselor discussions of this limitation were biomedically focused with limited explanations for the lacking data. The communication process themes identified included: low immediacy (infrequent use of language directly involving a participant), verbal dominance (greater speaking ratio of the counselor to the patient) and wide variation in the degree of interactivity (or the amount of turn-taking during the discussion). Placed within the larger literature on patient-provider communication, these present results provide insight into the dynamics surrounding race-related educational content for genomic testing and other emerging technologies. Clinicians may be better able to engage patients in the use of new genomic technology by increasing their awareness of specific communication processes and patterns during education or counseling sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan N Butrick
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Lauren Vanhusen
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Kara-Grace Leventhal
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Gillian W Hooker
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Rachel Nusbaum
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Beth N Peshkin
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Yasmin Salehizadeh
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Jessica Pavlick
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Marc D Schwartz
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Kristi D Graves
- Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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18
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Kelly KM, Ellington L, Schoenberg N, Agarwal P, Jackson T, Dickinson S, Abraham J, Paskett ED, Leventhal H, Andrykowski M. Linking genetic counseling content to short-term outcomes in individuals at elevated breast cancer risk. J Genet Couns 2014; 23:838-48. [PMID: 24671341 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-014-9705-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have linked actual genetic counseling content to short-term outcomes. Using the Self-regulation Model, the impact of cognitive and affective content in genetic counseling on short-term outcomes was studied in individuals at elevated risk of familial breast-ovarian cancer. Surveys assessed dependent variables: distress, perceived risk, and 6 knowledge measures (Meaning of Positive Test; Meaning of Negative Test; Personal Behavior; Practitioner Knowledge; Mechanisms of Cancer Inheritance; Frequency of Inherited Cancer) measured at pre- and post-counseling. Proportion of participant cognitive and affective and counselor cognitive and affective content during sessions (using LIWC software) were predictors in regressions. Knowledge increased for 5 measures and decreased for Personal Behavior, Distress and Perceived Risk. Controlling for age and education, results were significant/marginally significant for three measures. More counselor content was associated with decreases in knowledge of Personal Behavior. More participant and less counselor affective content was associated with gains in Practitioner Knowledge. More counselor cognitive, and interaction of counselor cognitive and affective content, were associated with higher perceived risk. Genetic counselors dominate the content of counseling sessions. Therefore, their content is tied more closely to short term outcomes than participant content. A lack of patient communication in sessions may pose problems for understanding of complex concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly M Kelly
- School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA,
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19
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Lerner B, Roberts JS, Shwartz M, Roter DL, Green RC, Clark JA. Distinct communication patterns during genetic counseling for late-onset Alzheimer's risk assessment. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2014; 94:170-9. [PMID: 24316056 PMCID: PMC3927403 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2013.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/26/2013] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and characterize patient-provider communication patterns during disclosure of Alzheimer's disease genetic susceptibility test results and to assess whether these patterns reflect differing models of genetic counseling. METHODS 262 genetic counseling session audio-recordings were coded using the Roter Interactional Analysis System. Cluster analysis was used to distinguish communication patterns. Bivariate analyses were used to identify characteristics associated with the patterns. RESULTS Three patterns were identified: Biomedical-Provider-Teaching (40%), Biomedical-Patient-Driven (34.4%), and Psychosocial-Patient-Centered (26%). Psychosocial-Patient-Centered and Biomedical-Provider-Teaching sessions included more female participants while the Biomedical-Patient-Driven sessions included more male participants (p=0.04). CONCLUSION Communication patterns observed reflected the teaching model primarily, with genetic counseling models less frequently used. The emphasis on biomedical communication may potentially be at the expense of more patient-centered approaches. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS To deliver more patient-centered care, providers may need to better balance the ratio of verbal exchange with their patients, as well as their educational and psychosocial discussions. The delineation of these patterns provides insights into the genetic counseling process that can be used to improve the delivery of genetic counseling care. These results can also be used in future research designed to study the association between patient-centered genetic counseling communication and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Scott Roberts
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Debra L Roter
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Robert C Green
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Jack A Clark
- Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, USA
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20
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Albada A, Vernooij M, van Osch L, Pijpe A, van Dulmen S, Ausems MGEM. Does and should breast cancer genetic counselling include lifestyle advice? Fam Cancer 2013; 13:35-44. [PMID: 23934600 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-013-9672-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To optimally inform counselees about their and their relatives' risks, information about lifestyle risk factors, e.g. physical activity and alcohol consumption, might be discussed in breast cancer genetic counselling. This study explored whether lifestyle was discussed, on whose initiative, whether information and/or advice was given, and whether discussion of lifestyle was related to counselees' characteristics and their causal attributions. First and follow-up consultations with 192 consecutive counselees for breast cancer genetic counselling were videotaped and coded for discussion of lifestyle topics. Counselees completed web-based questionnaires before the initial and after the final consultation. With 52 (27%) counselees lifestyle was discussed, either in the first, or the final consultation, or both. Counselees mostly raised the topic (60%). Counsellors provided information about lifestyle risk factors to 19% and lifestyle advice to 6% of the counselees. Discussion of lifestyle was not associated with counselees' characteristics or causal attributions. Post-counselling, more affected counselees considered lifestyle as a cause of their breast cancer (29%) compared to pre-counselling (15%; p = 0.003). Information and advice about lifestyle risk factors was infrequently provided, both with breast cancer unaffected and affected counselees and with those who did and did not consider their lifestyle as a cause of their breast cancer. Modifiable lifestyle factors could be discussed more frequently to optimally inform counselees about possible ways to reduce their risk. Counsellors should be educated about effects of lifestyle and research should be conducted on how to best integrate lifestyle information in breast cancer genetic counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akke Albada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands,
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Ordonez J, Margarit S, Downs K, Yashar BM. Peering into a Chilean Black Box: Parental Storytelling in Pediatric Genetic Counseling. J Genet Couns 2013; 22:805-16. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-013-9620-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Tercyak KP, O'Neill SC, Roter DL, McBride CM. Bridging the Communication Divide: A Role for Health Psychology in the Genomic Era. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 43:568-575. [PMID: 23503693 DOI: 10.1037/a0028971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The application of genomics to population health has the potential to revolutionize the practice of medicine. Indeed, discoveries into the genomic basis of cancer and other common chronic diseases have resulted in new and improved predictive tests for identifying individuals at increased risk for these conditions and long before their onset occurs. When used properly, information gained from predictive genomic tests can be combined with other leading indicators (e.g., environmental and behavioral risk factors) to inform medical management decisions, preventive health practices, and risk-reducing strategies. However, genomics remains an emerging science and the translation of genomic discoveries into improved population health management remains elusive. There are divides in the translational science continuum at several junctures, and many of these divides could be narrowed or closed with additional data. For example, we know relatively little about how to effectively communicate with the public about the complex interplay among genomics, behavior, and health. Moreover, there is a need to develop better methods of counseling and educating the public in light of newly emerging knowledge about the genomic basis of health and disease. We assert that the discipline of psychology, and health psychology in particular, is well-poised to continue to make significant contributions to this growing area of science and practice. Through a focus on health-related social and behavioral research, psychology can lead the way in overcoming divides in communication, understanding, and action about genomics for the betterment of both individual and public health practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth P Tercyak
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
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Ellington L, Reblin M, Clayton MF, Berry P, Mooney K. Hospice nurse communication with patients with cancer and their family caregivers. J Palliat Med 2012; 15:262-8. [PMID: 22339285 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2011.0287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective communication by hospice nurses enhances symptom management for the patient, reduces family caregiver burden and distress, and potentially improves bereavement adjustment. However, research has not kept pace with the rising use of hospice by patients with cancer and thus we know little about how hospice nurses communicate. METHODS The overriding objective of this pilot study was to provide insight into these in-home visits. Hospice nurses audiorecorded their interactions over time with family caregivers and patients with cancer. The communication within these tapes was coded using Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) and analyzed. RESULTS We found that tape recording home hospice nurse visits was feasible. RIAS was suited to capture the general content and process of the home hospice encounter and the coded interactions show the range of topics and emotions that are evident in the dialogue. Implications and future directions for research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Ellington
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA.
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A pre-visit website with question prompt sheet for counselees facilitates communication in the first consultation for breast cancer genetic counseling: findings from a randomized controlled trial. Genet Med 2012; 14:535-42. [PMID: 22241101 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2011.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The initial breast cancer genetic counseling visit is mainly educational, with large amounts of relatively standard information and little counselee participation. Counselors might provide more counselee-specific information if counselees would participate more. A pre-visit website providing computer-tailored information and a question prompt sheet (QPS) might help counselees to pursue a more active role. METHODS Counselees were randomized to receive usual care (UC) or UC plus the pre-visit website. The QPS questions were sent to the counselor before the visit. All counselees completed a baseline questionnaire, and visits were videotaped. RESULTS Intervention-group counselees (n = 102) did not ask more questions than UC-group counselees (n = 90). However, counselees in the intervention group more often shared their agenda (B = 10.37; confidence interval (CI) 2.68-18.06; P = 0.01), directed the communication (B = 0.41; CI 0.28-0.53; P = 0.01), and paraphrased the counselors' words (B = 5.18; CI 0.43-9.92; P = 0.03). Counselors introduced and answered the QPS questions. As a result, they provided more information about the topics of these questions, and the information provided was more specific to whether there was an indication for DNA testing. CONCLUSION A pre-visit website with QPS helped counselees to communicate more assertively. As a result, the information provided was more counselee specific, without affecting the visit duration.
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Claramita M, Dalen JV, Van Der Vleuten CP. Doctors in a Southeast Asian country communicate sub-optimally regardless of patients' educational background. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2011; 85:e169-74. [PMID: 21420821 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2011.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2010] [Revised: 12/26/2010] [Accepted: 02/06/2011] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the relationship between the style of doctor-patient communication and patients' educational background in a Southeast Asian teaching hospital setting using the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS). METHODS We analyzed a total of 245 audio-taped consultations involving 30 internal medicine residents with 7-10 patients each in the internal medicine outpatient clinics. The patients were categorized into a group with a high and a group with a low educational level. We ranked the data into 41 RIAS utterances and RIAS-based composite categories in order of observed frequency during consultations. RESULTS The residents invariantly used a paternalistic style irrespective of patients' educational background. The RIAS utterances and the composite categories show no significant relationship between communication style and patients' educational level. CONCLUSION Doctors in a Southeast Asian country use a paternalistic communication style during consultations, regardless of patients' educational background. PRACTICE IMPLICATION To approach a more partnership doctor-patient communication, culture and clinical environment concern of Southeast Asian should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mora Claramita
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sekip Utara Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
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Ellington L, Kelly KM, Reblin M, Latimer S, Roter D. Communication in genetic counseling: cognitive and emotional processing. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2011; 26:667-675. [PMID: 21660793 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2011.561921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The profession of genetic counseling has received limited guidance from theoretical models in how to communicate complex health information so that clients can actively use the information. In this study of a national sample of 145 genetic counselors conducting sessions with simulated clients, we apply two different approaches for analyzing and describing verbal health communication. The Roter interaction analysis system (RIAS) and linguistic inquiry word count (LIWC) were used to identify evidence of communication behaviors consistent with tenets of the social cognitive processing model (SCPM). These tools revealed descriptive evidence of counselor facilitation of client emotional processing and, to a lesser extent, facilitation of client cognitive processing and understanding. Conversely, descriptive analysis of client communication revealed evidence of cognitive processing, but less affective processing. Second, we assessed whether genetic counselor facilitative communication predicted simulated client responses consistent with the cognitive and emotional processing inherent in SCPM. These analyses revealed that counselor attempts to promote emotional expression and client insight were positively associated with client word usage indicative of expression of negative affect and cognitive processing. This study is the first to our knowledge to apply RIAS and LIWC in tandem and gives us a description of current practices within genetic counseling within a theoretical framework. Additionally, it provides suggestions for education and communication goals to improve providers' responses to patient emotions as well as skills to engender patient understanding and personal meaning-making of complex medical information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Ellington
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
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Dunlop KL, Barlow-Stewart K, Butow P, Heinrich P. A model of professional development for practicing genetic counselors: adaptation of communication skills training in oncology. J Genet Couns 2011; 20:217-30. [PMID: 21221752 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-010-9340-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ongoing professional development for practicing genetic counselors is critical in maintaining best practice. Communication skills training (CST) workshops for doctors in oncology, utilizing trained actors in role plays, have been implemented for many years to improve patient-centred communication. This model was adapted to provide professional development in counseling skills for practicing genetic counselors, already highly trained in counseling skills. Detailed evidence based scenarios were developed. Evaluation of participants' experience and perceived outcomes on practice included surveys immediately post workshops (2002, 2004, 2005, 2008 (×2); n = 88/97), 2-5 years later (2007; n = 21/38) and a focus group (2007; n = 7). All rated workshops as effective training. Aspects highly valued included facilitator feedback, actors rather than role-playing with peers and being able to stop and try doing things differently. Perceived outcomes included the opportunity to reflect on practice; bring focus to communication; motivation and confidence. The high level of satisfaction is a strong endorsement for ongoing communication skills training in this format as part of professional development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L Dunlop
- Centre for Genetics Education NSW Health, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Sydney, Australia.
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Dillard JP, Shen L, Robinson JD, Farrell PM. Parental information seeking following a positive newborn screening for cystic fibrosis. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2010; 15:880-894. [PMID: 21170789 PMCID: PMC3033770 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2010.522226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This investigation focused on the information-seeking behaviors of parents (N = 38) whose newborn had received a positive screening result for cystic fibrosis. Roughly half of the participants actively sought information about their child's potential disease prior to the clinic visit. The most common sources of information were the Internet, pediatricians, and family physicians. Analysis of behavior during the clinic visit showed rates of question asking that were judged as low, but they were comparable to the results of other studies. It was observed that parents occasionally would collaborate in the production of a single question. More educated parents tended to produce such questions more frequently. Importantly, frequency of collaborative questions was positively correlated with enhanced knowledge of cystic fibrosis six weeks after the clinic visit and with apparent dissatisfaction with the counseling interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Price Dillard
- Department of Communication Arts & Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA.
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Gale T, Pasalodos-Sanchez S, Kerzin-Storrar L, Hall G, MacLeod R. Explaining Mendelian inheritance in genetic consultations: an IPR study of counselor and counselee experiences. J Genet Couns 2010; 19:55-67. [PMID: 20049518 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-009-9263-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2009] [Accepted: 09/25/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The explanation of Mendelian inheritance is a key component of most genetic counselling consultations, yet no evidence base exists for this area of practice. This qualitative study used Interpersonal Process Recall (IPR) to explore how information about X-linked inheritance is provided and received in genetic counseling. Twelve consultations involving two senior genetic counselors and 21 counselees were videotaped. Section(s) of videotape featuring the explanation were subsequently played back separately to both counselees and counselors and their responses and reflections recorded. All interviews were fully transcribed and analysed using the constant comparison method. A personalized diagram, drawn "live" by the counselor during the consultation was recalled by counselees as being central to their understanding of the "bottom line". This helped bridge the gap between scientific information and their family experience and did not appear to require a baseline understanding of genetic concepts such as genes or chromosomes. Counselors reflected on the diagram's positive impact on the way they sequenced, paced and tailored the explanation. A positive counselor-counselee relationship was vital even during this educative exchange: for counselees to feel at ease discussing complex genetic information and to help gauge counselee understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Gale
- Genetic Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.
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Babul-Hirji R, Hewson S, Frescura M. A sociolinguistic exploration of genetic counseling discourse involving a child with a new genetic diagnosis. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2010; 78:40-45. [PMID: 19699604 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2009.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2008] [Revised: 05/29/2009] [Accepted: 06/14/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the process of genetic counseling with the aim of observing how participants negotiate a common understanding in light of the inherent power asymmetry of a genetics health care encounter. METHODS Data from ten sessions between genetic counselors and parents of children with a genetic diagnosis were taped. Transcripts were examined using a qualitative discourse analysis approach focusing on communication features such as question design, topic initiation and control, and lexical or discourse features which could give insights into rapport building strategies. RESULTS Counselors tightly controlled the medical history phase in all sessions and verbally dominated the scientific information phase. More symmetric communication occurred when: (i) counselors showed flexibility with their agenda and gave parents the opportunity to share their health experience; (ii) counselors showed signs of involvement through the use of 'rapport building' strategies; (iii) counselors used a syllogistic approach and information was delivered at a slower pace. CONCLUSION Observations from this study suggest that, when counselors focus on building rapport with parents, the human voice of the parent emerges. Examples of rapport building strategies by the counselors included adapting to the parents' variations in knowledge, recognizing the needs of the parents, verifying their understanding, and choosing a more interactive approach to the delivery of information. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that for effective communication to occur, parents need to be provided with opportunities to be active participants in the genetic counseling encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riyana Babul-Hirji
- Division of Clinical and Metabolic Genetics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5G 1X8.
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Meiser B, Irle J, Lobb E, Barlow-Stewart K. Assessment of the content and process of genetic counseling: a critical review of empirical studies. J Genet Couns 2008; 17:434-51. [PMID: 18791813 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-008-9173-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2008] [Accepted: 06/05/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews studies that assessed the process and content of genetic counseling communication. A systematic search of the literature was undertaken of studies that audio- or videotaped genetic counseling sessions conducted by genetics health care providers and subjected them to communication analyses. A total of 18 studies (published in 34 articles) were identified that met the eligibility criteria. Studies show that providers speak more than clients, that a large proportion of communication is biomedical rather than psychosocial and that the teaching model of genetic counseling is widely implemented. Higher levels of counselor facilitation of understanding and empathic responses, lower levels of verbal dominance (ratio of counselor to client talk) and the provision of a summary letter of the consultation are associated with more positive client outcomes. Findings from these studies should be used as an evidence base for teaching and continuing education of genetic counseling providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Meiser
- Psychosocial Research Group, Level 3, Dickinson Building, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia.
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Smets E, van Zwieten M, Michie S. Comparing genetic counseling with non-genetic health care interactions: two of a kind? PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2007; 68:225-34. [PMID: 17604936 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2007.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2006] [Revised: 05/22/2007] [Accepted: 05/22/2007] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increasingly clinicians other than genetic counselors will advise people with genetic risks. Although some express concerns about this development because of the need for non-genetic clinicians to have additional training, we argue that genetic counseling has more in common with other health care interactions than is generally assumed. METHODS In this narrative review we investigate the health communication literature taking the perspective that all provider-patient/client interactions share the following goals: forming a relationship, the exchange of information, decision making, promoting health-related behavior and providing support. RESULTS We found that both non-genetic and genetic 'disciplines' endorse an egalitarian relationship, based on a patient-centered approach and both have difficulties with attuning to the patients' agendas and enhancing patient understanding. Shared decision making is increasingly the preferred model for geneticists and non-geneticists alike, and both need skills to constructively discuss patients' risk-reducing behavior and provide emotional support. CONCLUSION Rather than developing separate vocabularies and research traditions, the discipline of genetic counseling may benefit by drawing on non-genetic patient-provider interaction research. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Since geneticists face the same challenges as non-geneticists, medical training should continue to improve basic consultation skills, regardless of whether the consultation involves genetic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology and Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Coming full circle: a reciprocal-engagement model of genetic counseling practice. J Genet Couns 2007; 16:713-28. [PMID: 17934802 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-007-9113-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2007] [Accepted: 06/27/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
As genetic health care and genetic testing expand from primarily addressing conditions that are exclusively genetic in nature to common diseases with both genetic and environmental components, the scope of genetic counseling has grown. Identification and utilization of a normative model of practice defined by members of the profession is critical as genetic services become more commonplace in medical care. The purpose of this paper is to describe the results of a consensus conference convened to define a model of genetic counseling practice based on the guidance of educators and leaders in the profession. Twenty-three program directors or their representatives from 20 genetic counseling graduate programs in North America listened to presentations and participated in group discussions aimed at determining the elements of a model of practice, including tenets, goals, strategies, and behaviors for addressing patients' genetic concerns. Their discussion is summarized, training implications and research recommendations are presented, and a model of practice that extends their ideas is proposed.
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Ellington L, Maxwel A, Baty BJ, Roter D, Dudley WN, Kinney AY. Genetic counseling communication with an African American BRCA1 kindred. Soc Sci Med 2007; 64:724-34. [PMID: 17081667 PMCID: PMC2043481 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2006.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We studied communication in genetic counseling sessions conducted with an African American, Breast Cancer 1, Early Onset (BRCA1) kindred in the USA. The Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) was used to code and compare two sessions of 46 participants (26 females and 20 males) before and after they underwent genetic testing. Three certified genetic counselors and one medical geneticist conducted the sessions. When compared to pre-test communication, most of the providers' post-test communication was devoted to the provision of biomedical information (including screening recommendations) with fewer questions and psychosocial statements. Clients contributed a similar proportion to the total session dialogue in pre- and post-test sessions (40%). A larger proportion of their post-test session was devoted to indicating receptiveness to provider information than in the pre-test session. We found when providers were informing clients that they were BRCA1 mutation carriers, they provided more biomedical and psychosocial information and asked more psychosocial questions than when talking with non-carriers. This study provides the first description of genetic counseling communication for pre- and post-test BRCA1 sessions with African American individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Ellington
- Psychology Department, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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