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McCrary JM, Van Valckenborgh E, Poirel HA, de Putter R, van Rooij J, Horgan D, Dierks ML, Antonova O, Brunet J, Chirita-Emandi A, Colas C, Dalmas M, Ehrencrona H, Grima C, Janavičius R, Klink B, Koczok K, Krajc M, Lace B, Leitsalu L, Mistrik M, Paneque M, Primorac D, Roetzer KM, Ronez J, Slámová L, Spanou E, Stamatopoulos K, Stoklosa T, Strang-Karlsson S, Szakszon K, Szczałuba K, Turner J, van Dooren MF, van Zelst-Stams WAG, Vassallo LM, Wadt KAW, Žigman T, Ripperger T, Genuardi M, Van den Bulcke M, Bergmann AK. Genetic counselling legislation and practice in cancer in EU Member States. Eur J Public Health 2024; 34:666-675. [PMID: 38905592 PMCID: PMC11293827 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckae093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatic and germline genetic alterations are significant drivers of cancer. Increasing integration of new technologies which profile these alterations requires timely, equitable and high-quality genetic counselling to facilitate accurate diagnoses and informed decision-making by patients and their families in preventive and clinical settings. This article aims to provide an overview of genetic counselling legislation and practice across European Union (EU) Member States to serve as a foundation for future European recommendations and action. METHODS National legislative databases of all 27 Member States were searched using terms relevant to genetic counselling, translated as appropriate. Interviews with relevant experts from each Member State were conducted to validate legislative search results and provide detailed insights into genetic counselling practice in each country. RESULTS Genetic counselling is included in national legislative documents of 22 of 27 Member States, with substantial variation in legal mechanisms and prescribed details (i.e. the 'who, what, when and where' of counselling). Practice is similarly varied. Workforce capacity (25 of 27 Member States) and genetic literacy (all Member States) were common reported barriers. Recognition and/or better integration of genetic counsellors and updated legislation and were most commonly noted as the 'most important change' which would improve practice. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights substantial variability in genetic counselling across EU Member States, as well as common barriers notwithstanding this variation. Future recommendations and action should focus on addressing literacy and capacity challenges through legislative, regulatory and/or strategic approaches at EU, national, regional and/or local levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Matt McCrary
- Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Els Van Valckenborgh
- Cancer Centre, , Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hélène A Poirel
- Cancer Centre, , Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin de Putter
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jeroen van Rooij
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Denis Horgan
- European Alliance for Personalised Medicine, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Luise Dierks
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine, and Health System Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Olga Antonova
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Joan Brunet
- Hereditary Cancer Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology, IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
| | - Adela Chirita-Emandi
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, Genetics Discipline, Center of Genomic Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, Timisoara, Romania
- Regional Center of Medical Genetics Timis, Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children “Louis Turcanu”, part of ERN ITHACA, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Chrystelle Colas
- Département de Génétique, Institut Curie, Paris, France
- INSERM U830, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | | | - Hans Ehrencrona
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics, Office for Medical Services, Region Skane, Lund, Sweden
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Ramūnas Janavičius
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Human and Medical Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- State Research Institute Center for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Barbara Klink
- National Center of Genetics, Laboratoire National de Santé, Dudelange, Luxembourg
| | - Katalin Koczok
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Debrecen Medical and Health Science Center, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Mateja Krajc
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Baiba Lace
- Riga East Clinical University, Riga, Latvia
- Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, University of Latvia, Riga, Latvia
| | - Liis Leitsalu
- Institute of Genomics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Genetics and Personalized Medicine Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Martin Mistrik
- Department of Medical Genetics, Unilabs, Spišská Nová Ves, Slovakia
| | - Milena Paneque
- CGPP—Centre for Predictive and Preventive Genetics, Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology (IBMC), Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS—School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Dragan Primorac
- St Catherine Specialty Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
- Medical School, University of Split, Split, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- Medical School, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
- Medical School REGIOMED, Coburg, Germany
- Eberly College of Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- The Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb and University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Katharina M Roetzer
- Labdia Labordiagnostik, Vienna, Austria
- St Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Joelle Ronez
- Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lucie Slámová
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Elena Spanou
- Clinical Genetics Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kostas Stamatopoulos
- Institute of Applied Biosciences, Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Tomasz Stoklosa
- Department of Tumor Biology and Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sonja Strang-Karlsson
- Department of Clinical Genetics, HUS Diagnostic Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katalin Szakszon
- Institute of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Krzysztof Szczałuba
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacqueline Turner
- Clinical Genetics Centre for Ophthalmology, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marieke F van Dooren
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Karin A W Wadt
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tamara Žigman
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb and University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tim Ripperger
- Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maurizio Genuardi
- Sezione di Medicina Genomica, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- UOC Genetica Medica, Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marc Van den Bulcke
- Cancer Centre, , Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
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Gonzalez T, Tucker K, Wakefield CE, Geelan-Small P, Macmillan S, Taylor N, Williams R. Comparing cancer genetic counselling using telegenetics with in-person and telephone appointments: Results of a partially randomised patient-preference pilot study. J Telemed Telecare 2024; 30:949-960. [PMID: 35833346 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221112556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-to-patient telegenetics, which uses video conferencing to connect health professionals directly to patients' devices, has been widely adopted during the pandemic. However, limited evidence currently supports its use in cancer genetic counselling. METHODS Before the pandemic, we conducted a two-arm partially randomised patient-preference pilot trial to evaluate direct-to-patient telegenetics for patients and genetic counsellors. Patients were randomised to a standard care (telephone/in-person) or direct-to-patient telegenetics appointment. Patients completed questionnaires before, during and after appointments measuring: psychological distress, perceived genetic counsellor empathy, telegenetics satisfaction and technical challenges. Genetic counsellor-reported outcomes -measured using purpose-designed questionnaires- included telegenetics satisfaction, therapeutic alliance and time for assessment. Open-ended patient and genetic counsellor questionnaire responses were synthesised using content analysis. RESULTS Fifty-six patients and seven genetic counsellors participated. Thirteen patients switched appointment type. No significant differences in distress (P = 0.84) were identified between direct-to-patient telegenetics and standard care. Perceived genetic counsellor empathy was high for all appointment types. There was no evidence of differences in reported maximum empathy scores between direct-to-patient telegenetics and standard care [telephone (P = 0.57); in-person (P = 0.44)]. Patients reported high direct-to-patient telegenetics satisfaction despite technical challenges in most appointments (65%). Genetic counsellors were satisfied with direct-to-patient telegenetics and perceived high therapeutic alliance irrespective of appointment type. No significant differences in genetic counsellor time were identified between direct-to-patient telegenetics and standard care [telephone (P > 0.90); in-person (P = 0.35)]. DISCUSSION Our results suggest that direct-to-patient telegenetics is a satisfactory service delivery model that does not appear to compromise patient-genetic counsellor relationships or increase patient distress. These findings support direct-to-patient telegenetics use in cancer genetic counselling, although larger trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Gonzalez
- Prince of Wales Hereditary Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Kathy Tucker
- Prince of Wales Hereditary Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Geelan-Small
- Stats Central, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephanie Macmillan
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie Taylor
- School of Population Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Rachel Williams
- Prince of Wales Hereditary Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
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Chu ATW, Chung CCY, Hue SPY, Chung BHY. The growing needs of genetic counselling-Feasibility in utilization of tele-genetic counselling in Asia and Hong Kong. Front Genet 2023; 14:1239817. [PMID: 37600657 PMCID: PMC10435751 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1239817] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The need for the expansion of genomic services has been at a record time high in the past decade. As technological advancement continues to strengthen the entire genetic and genomic pipeline and clinical operational workflow, the major challenge remains to be the speed of workforce development to meet service growth. In particular, the international expansion of genetic counselling (GC) services has been a topic of interest for the past few years. GC is an emerging profession in most of Asia, and in many countries the profession of GC often refers to physicians or front-line health workers with expertise in genetics to provide GC services rather than being a specific independent profession. As genetic and genomic services, especially pre-test and post-test GC, expand globally, the need to tackle the longstanding obstacles of GC personnel shortage and funding issues must not be overlooked. There is an urgent need internationally, and especially in Asia, where GC profession is comparatively less well-established, to seek alternative approaches to meet service demand. The present review examines the global development and feasibility of tele-genetics and tele-genetic counselling (TGC), and serves as the foundation to explore a possible roadmap in Hong Kong via the Hong Kong Genome Project.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Brian Hon Yin Chung
- Hong Kong Genome Institute, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Farnè M, Fortunato F, Neri M, Farnè M, Balla C, Albamonte E, Barp A, Armaroli A, Perugini E, Carinci V, Facchini M, Chiarini L, Sansone VA, Straudi S, Tugnoli V, Sette E, Sensi M, Bertini M, Evangelista T, Ferlini A, Gualandi F. TeleNEwCARe: An Italian case-control telegenetics study in patients with Hereditary NEuromuscular and CArdiac diseases. Eur J Med Genet 2023; 66:104749. [PMID: 36948289 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2023.104749] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine provides healthcare services remotely and represents a fundamental resource for the management of rare and fragile patients. Tele-health implementation is a main objective of the European Reference Networks (ERNs) mission to accelerate diagnosis for rare diseases. TeleNewCAre is a pilot case-control project which evaluates the efficacy and satisfaction of telegenetics for neuromuscular and cardiac adult patients, compared to face-to-face genetic counselling. The virtual sessions were co-hosted by a medical geneticist and a neurologist/cardiologist. Specific questionnaires (Clinical Genetics Satisfaction Questionnaire (CGS), Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQ) and a Satisfaction Questionnaire for medical geneticists) were used to assess the effectiveness and fulfilment of telecounselling, both for patients and health care providers. Satisfaction expressed for telegenetics did not significantly differ from face-to-face counselling. The virtually enrolled patients declared they had the possibility to relate confidentially with the specialists, to share information and to be informed in an exhaustive way about their disease. Almost all patients declared themselves willing to reuse the telecounselling in the future. The multidisciplinary care was perceived as a significant added value. No overt technical problems were reported although the need for digital skills and tools can limit patients' compliance. Our experience supports telegenetics as a valid alternative to traditional genetic counselling in cardiac and neuromuscular patients. This innovative approach facilitates multidisciplinary care, grants a periodical follow up, without forcing patients to discomfortable travelling, and allows to maintain expert care. This result meets the ERNs needs to reduce patients' burden to access and monitor their healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Farnè
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Mother and Child, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Fortunato
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Mother and Child, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marcella Neri
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Mother and Child, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Farnè
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Cristina Balla
- Cardiological Center, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Emilio Albamonte
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, ASST Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Barp
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, ASST Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Annarita Armaroli
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Mother and Child, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Marco Facchini
- Information and Communication Technology Department, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Chiarini
- Information and Communication Technology Department, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valeria A Sansone
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, ASST Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Sofia Straudi
- Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valeria Tugnoli
- Neurology Unit, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sette
- Neurology Unit, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mariachiara Sensi
- Neurology Unit, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Bertini
- Cardiological Center, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Teresinha Evangelista
- Functional Unit of Neuromuscular Pathology, Nord/Est/Ile-de-France Neuromuscular Reference Center, Institute of Myology, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, APHP, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Alessandra Ferlini
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Mother and Child, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Francesca Gualandi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Mother and Child, Sant'Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Koerner C, Wetzel H, Klass A, Doyle LE, Mills R. Something to chat about: An analysis of genetic counseling via asynchronous messaging following direct-to-consumer genetic testing. J Genet Couns 2023. [PMID: 36732942 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1683] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Advances in technology, decreasing cost of genetic testing, and growing public interest in genetics marked by an increased uptake of genetic testing, particularly direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT), have led to an overwhelming demand for genetic counseling services. As such, various alternative service delivery models have been proposed to increase access to genetic counseling. Some service delivery models, such as asynchronous messaging, remain unexplored in the genetic counseling literature. The purpose of this study was to assess communication during genetic counseling for DTC-GT through asynchronous messaging. A thematic analysis was conducted on 34 de-identified chat transcripts between genetic counselors and clients who underwent DTC-GT. Six categories of communication were identified and were grouped based on communication sources from either the client or the genetic counselor. Categories observed in client communication were motivations for seeking DTC testing and/or genetic counseling services, questions posed to the genetic counselor, responses provided during the session, and psychosocial aspects of the session related to the clients' mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Categories of communication that emerged from the genetic counselors' communications were educational aspects of the session and counseling strategies to address concerns that are not related to educational or informational needs. Most clients had specific questions about variants detected or specific conditions. Many clients asked about appropriate subsequent steps related to additional testing or medical management. Genetic counselors discussed the limitations of DTC-GT and recommendations for clinical grade testing in almost all chat transcripts. In several chats, the genetic counselor provided advice to the client related to minimizing time sorting through likely benign results and refraining from altering medical management. Results suggest that genetic counselors are able to provide genetic information to clients and respond to their mental and emotional needs through asynchronous chat following DTC-GT. Findings from this study provide initial insight into a unique genetic counseling delivery model and reveal the informational and counseling needs of clients following DTC-GT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cari Koerner
- Genetic Counseling Program, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA.,Hereditary Cancer Program, Cone Health, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Lauren E Doyle
- Genetic Counseling Program, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rachel Mills
- Genetic Counseling Program, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
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6
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Salman A, Morris E, Inglis A, Austin J. Examining the effect of patient personality types and coping styles on outcomes of genetic counseling. J Genet Couns 2023; 32:68-78. [PMID: 35913178 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Both empirical data and genetic counselors' clinical experience suggest that patients differ in the extent to which they benefit from genetic counseling (GC). Understanding the origins of these differences could help adapt services to ensure that all patients benefit fully, and potentially inform triage. Although patient personality dimensions and coping styles have been shown to influence outcomes of other psychological interventions, they have remained largely unexplored in relation to GC outcomes. We conducted an exploratory, descriptive study to assess relationships between patient personality dimensions, coping styles, and outcomes of GC. We recruited patients from a psychiatric genetics clinic who had - in the prior 7 years - completed the GC Outcomes Scale (GCOS, a measure of empowerment) immediately prior to, and approximately one month after their appointment, and asked them to complete validated measures of personality and coping style. Interactions between each personality dimension or coping style and GCOS score were assessed using mixed-effects linear regression models. Among the 169 participants, GCOS score increased by an average of 16.48 points (SD = 12.59). Though extraversion, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and all three coping styles significantly predicted GCOS score (p < 0.02), there was no relationship between these variables and time. For example, though a high score on conscientiousness predicted higher GCOS scores, it did not predict greater change in GCOS - people with higher scores on this dimension of personality had higher GCOS scores both pre- and post- GC. These preliminary data suggest that genetic counseling may increase empowerment regardless of personality dimensions and coping styles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areesha Salman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Emily Morris
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Angela Inglis
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jehannine Austin
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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7
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Dantas MAA, Da Silva JD, Tkachenko N, Paneque M. Telehealth in genetic counselling consultations: the impact of COVID-19 in a Portuguese genetic healthcare service. J Community Genet 2023; 14:91-100. [PMID: 36414926 PMCID: PMC9685011 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-022-00618-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The already increasing use of telemedicine in the last few years has risen significantly after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a fast implementation, it is important to understand the experience of genetic counselling patients using telehealth. To this end, we developed a study to understand the impact of the pandemic on genetics consultations, using a mixed-method approach through a questionnaire to collect the patients' opinions. The largest group included in the study was 26-45 years old (65%), and 33.6% had completed year 12 of secondary education. Due to the impact of the pandemic, we observed an increase of 84.5% in teleconsultations. The participants' satisfaction was quite significant, 67.3% felt comfortable discussing personal and family health, 53.6% were well-enlightened, and 59.1% did not find it difficult to build a doctor-patient relationship. However, 64.5% of our participants indicated using the service only for subsequent consultations but supported the idea of continuing with telemedicine in the future. Undoubtedly, this service is essential for better quality and healthcare support. The professionals involved must be increasingly trained to provide adequate genetic counselling and comfort to the patient. Training automatically influences the improvement of the service regarding the barriers encountered and consequently provides a better experience and satisfaction to the patient and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayla A. A. Dantas
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Diogo Da Silva
- CGM - Centro de Genética Médica Doutor Jacinto Magalhães, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal ,ICVS - Life and Health Sciences Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal ,ICVS/3B’s - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nataliya Tkachenko
- CGM - Centro de Genética Médica Doutor Jacinto Magalhães, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Milena Paneque
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal ,CGPP - Centro de Genética Preditiva e Preventiva, IBMC - Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação EM Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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8
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Campbell IM, Crowley TB, Keena B, Donoghue S, McManus ML, Zackai EH. The experience of one pediatric geneticist with telemedicine-based clinical diagnosis. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:3416-3422. [PMID: 35906847 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine has long been considered as an attractive alternative methodology in clinical genetics to improve patient access and convenience. Given the importance of the dysmorphology physical examination and anthropometric measurement in clinical genetics, many have wondered if lost information would hamper diagnosis. We previously addressed this question by analyzing thousands of diagnostic encounters in a single practice involving multiple practitioners and found no evidence for a difference in new molecular diagnosis rates. However, our previous study design resulted in variability in providers between in-person and telemedicine evaluation groups. To address this in our present study, we expanded our analysis to 1104 new patient evaluations seen by one highly experienced clinical geneticist across two 10-month periods before and after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Comparing patients seen in-person to those seen by telemedicine, we found significant differences in race and ethnicity, preferred language, and home zip code median income. The clinical geneticist intended to send more genetic testing for those patients seen by telemedicine, but due to issues with test authorization and sample collection, there was no difference in ultimate completion rate between groups. We found no significant difference in new molecular diagnosis rate. Overall, we find telemedicine to be an acceptable alternative to in-person evaluation for routine pediatric clinical genetics care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M Campbell
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - T Blaine Crowley
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Beth Keena
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Donoghue
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Morgan L McManus
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elaine H Zackai
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Szigety KM, Crowley TB, Gaiser KB, Chen EY, Priestley JRC, Williams LS, Rangu SA, Wright CM, Adusumalli P, Ahrens-Nicklas RC, Calderon B, Cuddapah SR, Edmondson A, Ficicioglu C, Ganetzky R, Kalish JM, Krantz ID, McDonald-McGinn DM, Medne L, Muraresku C, Pyle LC, Zackai EH, Campbell IM, Sheppard SE. Clinical Effectiveness of Telemedicine-Based Pediatric Genetics Care. Pediatrics 2022; 150:e2021054520. [PMID: 35642503 PMCID: PMC9724118 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-054520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Telemedicine may increase access to medical genetics care. However, in the pediatric setting, how telemedicine may affect the diagnostic rate is unknown, partially because of the perceived importance of the dysmorphology physical examination. We studied the clinical effectiveness of telemedicine for patients with suspected or confirmed genetic conditions. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of outpatient encounters before and after the widespread implementation of telemedicine (N = 5854). Visit types, diagnoses, patient demographic characteristics, and laboratory data were acquired from the electronic health record. Patient satisfaction was assessed through survey responses. New molecular diagnosis was the primary end point. RESULTS Patients seen by telemedicine were more likely to report non-Hispanic White ancestry, prefer to speak English, live in zip codes with higher median incomes, and have commercial insurance (all P < .01). Genetic testing was recommended for more patients evaluated by telemedicine than in person (79.5% vs 70.9%; P < .001). Patients seen in person were more likely to have a sample collected, resulting in similar test completion rates (telemedicine, 51.2%; in person, 55.1%; P = .09). There was no significant difference in molecular diagnosis rate between visit modalities (telemedicine, 13.8%; in person, 12.4%; P = .40). CONCLUSIONS Telemedicine and traditional in-person evaluation resulted in similar molecular diagnosis rates. However, improved methodologies for remote sample collection may be required. This study reveals the feasibility of telemedicine in a large academic medical genetics practice and is applicable to other pediatric specialties with perceived importance of physical examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M. Szigety
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Terrence B. Crowley
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kimberly B. Gaiser
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Erin Y. Chen
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jessica R. C. Priestley
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lydia S. Williams
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sneha A. Rangu
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Christina M. Wright
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Priyanka Adusumalli
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Brandon Calderon
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sanmati R. Cuddapah
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Andrew Edmondson
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Can Ficicioglu
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rebecca Ganetzky
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jennifer M. Kalish
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ian D. Krantz
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Donna M. McDonald-McGinn
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Livija Medne
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Colleen Muraresku
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Louise C. Pyle
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Elaine H. Zackai
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ian M. Campbell
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarah E. Sheppard
- Division of Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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10
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Pestoff R, Johansson P, Danielsson H, Neher M, Gunnarsson C. Rapid Implementation of Telegenetic Counseling in the COVID-19 and Swedish Healthcare Context: A Feasibility Study. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2022; 2:848512. [PMID: 36925809 PMCID: PMC10012799 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2022.848512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This study reports the process and preliminary findings of rapid implementation of telegenetic counseling in the context of Swedish healthcare and COVID-19 pandemic, from both a patient and a provider perspective. Fourty-nine patients and 6 healthcare professionals were included in this feasibility study of telegenetic counseling in a regional Department of Clinical Genetics in Sweden. Telegenetic counseling is here defined as providing genetic counseling to patients by video (n = 30) or telephone (n = 19) appointments. Four specific feasibility aspects were considered: acceptability, demand, implementation, and preliminary efficacy. Several measures were used including the Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale 24 (collected pre- and post-counseling); the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire; a short study specific evaluation and Visiba Care evaluations, all collected post-counseling. The measures were analyzed with descriptive statistics and the preliminary results show a high level of acceptance and demand, from both patients and providers. Results also indicate successful initial implementation in the regional Department of Clinical Genetics and preliminary efficacy, as shown by significant clinically important improvement in patients' empowerment levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecka Pestoff
- Centre for Rare Diseases in Southeast Region of Sweden, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Peter Johansson
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Henrik Danielsson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Margit Neher
- Department of Rehabilitation, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Gunnarsson
- Centre for Rare Diseases in Southeast Region of Sweden, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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11
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Brown EM, Grinzaid KA, Ali N, Mehta N, Hardy MW. Evaluating the experiences of individuals with personal health risks identified through expanded carrier screening. J Genet Couns 2021; 31:598-607. [PMID: 34695254 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Expanded carrier screening (ECS) is used to identify individuals and couples at risk for having children with recessive or X-linked genetic conditions; however, personal health risks (PHR) can also be identified through this testing. There is limited data on how genetic counseling regarding PHR from ECS is perceived by the individual, or how they use this information. This study quantitatively surveyed individuals identified with these risks between September 2013 and March 2020. The 30-item survey included the validated Genomics Outcome Scale Short Form, the validated Genetic Counseling Satisfaction Scale, and original questions. Survey topics included pre-test knowledge of the possibility of discovering PHR through testing, satisfaction with pre-test education that addresses potential risks, perceived severity of PHR, empowerment by and understanding of information, anxiety levels related to their PHR, perceived genetic counseling support, and satisfaction with telehealth. A total of 416 completed surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and linear and logistic regressions. The majority of participants were satisfied or extremely satisfied with pre-test education (n = 328; 78.8%) and telehealth (n = 329; 79.1%). However, more participants who were aware of the possibility of identifying PHR through ECS prior to testing were satisfied with pre-test education compared to those who were not aware. Additionally, a lack of prior awareness of PHR was associated with lower empowerment scores (p = .004). Those who were highly satisfied with genetic counseling were more likely to feel empowered and understand the information presented (p = .001). The majority of individuals used their PHR information following their results appointment (n = 391; 94.0%). The results of this study suggest that receiving PHR information was useful and was positively influenced by both pre-test education and the genetic counseling process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Brown
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Karen A Grinzaid
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nadia Ali
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nikita Mehta
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Melanie W Hardy
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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12
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Danylchuk NR, Cook L, Shane-Carson KP, Cacioppo CN, Hardy MW, Nusbaum R, Steelman SC, Malinowski J. Telehealth for genetic counseling: A systematic evidence review. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:1361-1378. [PMID: 34355839 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Telehealth options, such as telephone counseling or videoconferencing, for service delivery in genetic counseling are becoming more widely accepted. However, until now, there has not been a systematic review of the literature focused specifically on genetic counseling outcomes for telehealth. We performed a systematic evidence review to compare telehealth genetic counseling (THGC), including videoconferencing and telephone counseling, across specialties to in-person genetic counseling (IPGC) for a range of outcomes specific to patient and provider experiences and access to care. Several biomedical databases were queried up to January 11, 2021, to identify original research evaluating THGC. Through this search, 42 articles met the inclusion criteria including 13 randomized controlled trials and 29 non-randomized observational studies encompassing 13,901 patients. Most included studies focused only on cancer genetic counseling; however, adult, pediatric, and prenatal specialties were also represented. The majority of studies evaluated patient and/or access to care outcomes. Though most studies reported high patient satisfaction with THGC, as well as comparable rates of trust and rapport, confidence in privacy, health behavior changes, and psychosocial outcomes, few represented diverse populations. Data of provider experiences were limited and varied with more disadvantages noted compared with patient experiences, particularly in studies involving telephone genetic counseling. Studies consistently reported a decrease in the patients' costs and time required for travel when patients are seen via THGC compared to IPGC with a similar reduction in costs to the health system. Overall, results from our evidence synthesis suggest THGC is non-inferior or comparable to IPGC across many domains, even considering that many of the studies included in this review were conducted with telehealth systems, notably videoconferencing, that were less robust and reliable than what is available today. There are notable limitations within this body of literature, leading to potential uncertainty in the generalizability of our analysis. We outline several recommendations for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle R Danylchuk
- Department of Genetic Counseling, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Lola Cook
- Department of Medical & Molecular Genetics, Indiana U School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kate P Shane-Carson
- Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Cara N Cacioppo
- Penn Telegenetics Program, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Rachel Nusbaum
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Susan C Steelman
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Library, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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13
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Provider Perspectives on the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Newborn Screening. Int J Neonatal Screen 2021; 7:ijns7030038. [PMID: 34287223 PMCID: PMC8293089 DOI: 10.3390/ijns7030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic caused significant changes in healthcare delivery. Telemedicine rapidly and unexpectedly became the primary vehicle for ambulatory management. As newborn screen (NBS) referrals require varying levels of acuity, whether telemedicine could be used as a safe and effective medium to return these results were unknown. We sent an online survey to metabolism providers internationally to investigate triage differences of abnormal NBS results during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey compared personal practice for the periods of March-June 2019 and March-June 2020. Responses were received from 44 providers practicing in 8 countries. Nearly all (93%) practiced in areas of widespread SARS-COV-2 community transmission during spring 2020. There was a significant expansion of telemedicine use for NBS referrals at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (OR: 12, 95% CI: 3.66-39.3, p < 0.0001). Telehealth primarily replaced in-person ambulatory metabolism visits. The increased frequency of virtual care was similar across NBS analytes. Providers found telehealth for NBS referral equally efficacious to in-person care. Institutional patient surveys showed no difference in satisfaction with provider communication, provider empathy, or appointment logistics. Our survey was limited by unprecedented disruption in healthcare delivery, necessitating further validation of telegenetics for NBS in the post-pandemic era. Nevertheless, our findings demonstrate that telemedicine is potentially a viable and practical tool for triaging abnormal NBS results.
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14
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Kim S, Aceti M, Baroutsou V, Bürki N, Caiata-Zufferey M, Cattaneo M, Chappuis PO, Ciorba FM, Graffeo-Galbiati R, Heinzelmann-Schwarz V, Jeong J, Jung MM, Kim SW, Kim J, Lim MC, Ming C, Monnerat C, Park HS, Park SH, Pedrazzani CA, Rabaglio M, Ryu JM, Saccilotto R, Wieser S, Zürrer-Härdi U, Katapodi MC. Using a Tailored Digital Health Intervention for Family Communication and Cascade Genetic Testing in Swiss and Korean Families With Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Protocol for the DIALOGUE Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e26264. [PMID: 34114954 PMCID: PMC8235289 DOI: 10.2196/26264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC), family communication of genetic test results is essential for cascade genetic screening, that is, identifying and testing blood relatives of known mutation carriers to determine whether they also carry the pathogenic variant, and to propose preventive and clinical management options. However, up to 50% of blood relatives are unaware of relevant genetic information, suggesting that potential benefits of genetic testing are not communicated effectively within family networks. Technology can facilitate communication and genetic education within HBOC families. Objective The aims of this study are to develop the K-CASCADE (Korean–Cancer Predisposition Cascade Genetic Testing) cohort in Korea by expanding an infrastructure developed by the CASCADE (Cancer Predisposition Cascade Genetic Testing) Consortium in Switzerland; develop a digital health intervention to support the communication of cancer predisposition for Swiss and Korean HBOC families, based on linguistic and cultural adaptation of the Family Gene Toolkit; evaluate its efficacy on primary (family communication of genetic results and cascade testing) and secondary (psychological distress, genetic literacy, active coping, and decision making) outcomes; and explore its translatability using the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance framework. Methods The digital health intervention will be available in French, German, Italian, Korean, and English and can be accessed via the web, mobile phone, or tablet (ie, device-agnostic). K-CASCADE cohort of Korean HBOC mutation carriers and relatives will be based on the CASCADE infrastructure. Narrative data collected through individual interviews or mini focus groups from 20 to 24 HBOC family members per linguistic region and 6-10 health care providers involved in genetic services will identify the local cultures and context, and inform the content of the tailored messages. The efficacy of the digital health intervention against a comparison website will be assessed in a randomized trial with 104 HBOC mutation carriers (52 in each study arm). The translatability of the digital health intervention will be assessed using survey data collected from HBOC families and health care providers. Results Funding was received in October 2019. It is projected that data collection will be completed by January 2023 and results will be published in fall 2023. Conclusions This study addresses the continuum of translational research, from developing an international research infrastructure and adapting an existing digital health intervention to testing its efficacy in a randomized controlled trial and exploring its translatability using an established framework. Adapting existing interventions, rather than developing new ones, takes advantage of previous valid experiences without duplicating efforts. Culturally sensitive web-based interventions that enhance family communication and understanding of genetic cancer risk are timely. This collaboration creates a research infrastructure between Switzerland and Korea that can be scaled up to cover other hereditary cancer syndromes. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04214210; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04214210 and CRiS KCT0005643; https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/ International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/26264
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue Kim
- Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, College of Nursing, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Monica Aceti
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vasiliki Baroutsou
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Bürki
- Women's Clinic and Gynecological Oncology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maria Caiata-Zufferey
- La Scuola Universitaria Professionale della Svizzera Italiana (SUPSI), Manno, Switzerland
| | - Marco Cattaneo
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pierre O Chappuis
- Unit of Oncogenetics, Division of Oncology, Division of Genetic Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florina M Ciorba
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Viola Heinzelmann-Schwarz
- Women's Clinic and Gynecological Oncology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joon Jeong
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - MiSook M Jung
- College of Nursing, Chungnam National University, Deajeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Won Kim
- Dairim St Mary's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisun Kim
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myong Cheol Lim
- Division of Tumor Immunology, Center for Gynecologic Cancer Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Ming
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Hyung Seok Park
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hyung Park
- Department of Computer Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Carla A Pedrazzani
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Rabaglio
- University Clinic for Medical Oncology, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jai Min Ryu
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ramon Saccilotto
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Simon Wieser
- School of Management and Law, Winterthur Institute of Health Economics, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Ursina Zürrer-Härdi
- Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kantonsspital Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Maria C Katapodi
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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15
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Brown EG, Watts I, Beales ER, Maudhoo A, Hayward J, Sheridan E, Rafi I. Videoconferencing to deliver genetics services: a systematic review of telegenetics in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Genet Med 2021; 23:1438-1449. [PMID: 33824502 PMCID: PMC8023770 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-021-01149-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic has forced reorganization of clinical services to minimize face-to-face contact between patients and health-care providers. Specialist services, including clinical genetics, must consider methods of remote delivery including videoconferencing—termed telegenetics. This review evaluates the evidence for telegenetics and its applicability to future service development. Methods A systematic review of six databases was conducted to identify studies from 2005 onward using synchronous videoconferencing to deliver clinical genetics services. Included studies compared telegenetics to an alternative method or used a before and after design. Results Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria (eight compared telegenetics to in-person consultations and three to telephone delivery). Patient satisfaction, genetic knowledge, and psychosocial outcomes were similar for in-person and telegenetic counseling. There was some evidence that telegenetics may be superior to telephone delivery for knowledge gain and reduction in anxiety and depression. There is limited evidence concerning the effect of telegenetics on provider satisfaction and behavioral outcomes. Conclusions are limited by at least moderate risk of bias in all evaluated studies and small sample sizes. Conclusion Across most outcomes measured, telegenetics had equivalent outcomes to in-person appointment; however, the extent to which the available evidence is applicable to longer-term use is debatable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Brown
- St George's University of London, Department of Academic Primary Care, London, UK
| | - Isabella Watts
- St George's University of London, Department of Academic Primary Care, London, UK.
| | - Emily R Beales
- St George's University of London, Department of Academic Primary Care, London, UK
| | - Ashwini Maudhoo
- St George's University of London, Department of Academic Primary Care, London, UK
| | - Judith Hayward
- Yorkshire and Humber Genomics Medicine Centre, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Imran Rafi
- St George's University of London, Department of Academic Primary Care, London, UK
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16
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Gorrie A, Gold J, Cameron C, Krause M, Kincaid H. Benefits and limitations of telegenetics: A literature review. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:924-937. [PMID: 33817891 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Telegenetics involves the use of technology (generally video conferencing) to remotely provide genetic services. A telegenetics platform is critical for those with limitations or vulnerabilities compromising their ability to attend clinic in-person, including individuals in rural areas. As the demand for remote genetics services increases, and amidst the COVID-19 pandemic with social distancing practices in place, we conducted a literature review to examine the benefits and limitations of telegenetics and explore the views of patients and health professionals utilizing telegenetics. Searches of the PubMed database identified 21 relevant primary studies for inclusion. The majority of studies found acceptability of telegenetics to be high among patients and health professionals and that telegenetics provided access to genetics services for underserved communities. The main benefits cited include cost-effectiveness and reduction in travel time for genetics services providing outreach clinics and patients who would otherwise travel long distances to access genetics. Patients appreciated the convenience of telegenetics including the reduced wait times, although a minority of patients reported their psychosocial needs were not adequately met. Eight studies compared outcomes between telegenetics and in-person services; findings suggested when comparing telegenetics patients to their in-person counterparts, telegenetics patients had a similar level of knowledge and understanding of genetics and similar psychological outcomes. Some studies reported challenges related to establishing rapport and reading and responding to verbal cues via telegenetics, while technical issues were not generally found to be a major limitation. Some service adaptations, for example, counseling strategies, may be required to successfully deliver telegenetics. Further research may be necessary to gather and examine data on how telegenetics outcomes compare to that of in-person genetic counseling and adapt services accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Gorrie
- Department of General Genetics, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Judy Gold
- Independent Consultant, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carolyn Cameron
- Department of General Genetics, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Molly Krause
- Department of General Genetics, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Kincaid
- Department of General Genetics, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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17
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Tecklenburg J. Telemedicine - chances and challenges for medical genetics in Germany. MED GENET-BERLIN 2021; 33:53-59. [PMID: 38836212 PMCID: PMC11006251 DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2021-2057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Telemedicine has been in practical use for many years, mostly within the context of model projects. The current Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the process of implementing telemedicine in standard care. Numerous regulations, as well as complex reimbursement structures play a role in the application of telemedicine in medical genetics in Germany. Discipline- and technology-specific challenges complicate the integration of technical solutions into the medical genetic practice. In previous studies teleconsultations and virtual consultations in medical genetics have proven their value as indicated by high levels of satisfaction in the users and showing no inferiority to in-person consultation in terms of psychosocial outcome. The next years will bring an increasing demand for genetic counseling that can hardly be met by the limited number of specialists in Germany. In this context telemedicine can help to close these gaps in standard care while strengthening the field by ensuring comprehensive medical genetic care. The German medical genetics community is asked to actively shape the process of implementation by defining areas of genetic counseling that are suitable for telemedicine, by regulating access for physicians and by contributing to the renumeration structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Tecklenburg
- Institut für Humangenetik, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625Hannover, Germany
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18
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Baroutsou V, Underhill-Blazey ML, Appenzeller-Herzog C, Katapodi MC. Interventions Facilitating Family Communication of Genetic Testing Results and Cascade Screening in Hereditary Breast/Ovarian Cancer or Lynch Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040925. [PMID: 33672149 PMCID: PMC7926393 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence-based guidelines recommend cascade genetic testing of blood relatives of known Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) or Lynch Syndrome (LS) cases, to inform individualized cancer screening and prevention plans. The study identified interventions designed to facilitate family communication of genetic testing results and/or cancer predisposition cascade genetic testing for HBOC and LS. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials that assessed intervention efficacy for these two outcomes. Additional outcomes were also recorded and synthesized when possible. Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the narrative synthesis and 13 in the meta-analysis. Lack of participant blinding was the most common risk of bias. Interventions targeted HBOC (n = 5); both HBOC and LS (n = 4); LS (n = 3); or ovarian cancer (n = 2). All protocols (n = 14) included a psychoeducational and/or counseling component. Additional components were decision aids (n = 4), building communication skills (n = 4), or motivational interviewing (n = 1). The overall effect size for family communication was small (g = 0.085) and not significant (p = 0.344), while for cascade testing, it was small (g = 0.169) but significant (p = 0.014). Interventions show promise for improving cancer predisposition cascade genetic testing for HBOC and LS. Future studies should employ family-based approaches and include racially diverse samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Baroutsou
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Meghan L. Underhill-Blazey
- School of Nursing, Wilmot Cancer Institute Hereditary Cancer Program, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
| | | | - Maria C. Katapodi
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-61-207-04-30
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19
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Bell S, Karamchandani U, Malcolmson K, Moosajee M. Acceptability of Telegenetics for Families with Genetic Eye Diseases. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12020276. [PMID: 33672002 PMCID: PMC7919280 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare providers around the world have implemented remote routine consultations to minimise disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual clinics are particularly suitable for patients with genetic eye diseases as they rely on detailed histories with genetic counselling. During April-June 2019, the opinion of carers of children with inherited eye disorders attending the ocular genetics service at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (MEH) were canvassed. Sixty-five percent of families (n = 35/54) preferred to have investigations carried out locally rather than travel to MEH, with 64% opting for a virtual consultation to interpret the results. The most popular mode of remote contact was via telephone (14/31), with video call being least preferred (8/31). Hence, 54 families who had received a telephone consultation mid-pandemic (November 2020-January 2021) were contacted to re-evaluate the acceptability of telegenetics using the Clinical Genetics Satisfaction Indicator and Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire. Overall, 50 carers participated (response rate 93%); 58% of participants found teleconsultations acceptable and 54% agreed they increased their access to care, but 67.5% preferred to be seen in person. Patient satisfaction was high with 90% strongly agreeing/agreeing they shared and received all necessary information. Ocular genetics is well-suited for remote service delivery, ideally alternated with face-to-face consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzannah Bell
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK; (S.B.); (U.K.); (K.M.)
| | - Urvi Karamchandani
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK; (S.B.); (U.K.); (K.M.)
| | - Kirsten Malcolmson
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK; (S.B.); (U.K.); (K.M.)
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK; (S.B.); (U.K.); (K.M.)
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London WC1N 3JH, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Correspondence:
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20
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Chou AF, Duncan AR, Hallford G, Kelley DM, Dean LW. Barriers and strategies to integrate medical genetics and primary care in underserved populations: a scoping review. J Community Genet 2021; 12:291-309. [PMID: 33523369 PMCID: PMC7849219 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-021-00508-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite clinical and technological advances, serious gaps remain in delivering genetic services due to disparities in workforce distribution and lack of coverage for genetic testing and counseling. Genetic services delivery, particularly in medically underserved populations, may rely heavily on primary care providers (PCPs). This study aims to identify barriers to integrating genetic services and primary care, and strategies to support integration, by conducting a scoping review. Literature synthesis found barriers most frequently cited by PCPs including insufficient knowledge about genetics and risk assessment, lack of access to geneticists, and insufficient time to address these challenges. Telegenetics, patient-centered care, and learning communities are strategies to overcome these barriers. Telegenetics supplements face-to-face clinics by providing remote access to genetic services. It may also be used for physician consultations and education. Patient-centered care allows providers, families, and patients to coordinate services and resources. Access to expert information provides a critical resource for PCPs. Learning communities may represent a mechanism that facilitates information exchange and knowledge sharing among different providers. As PCPs often play a crucial role caring for patients with genetic disorders in underserved areas, barriers to primary care-medical genetics integration must be addressed to improve access. Strategies, such as telegenetics, promotion of evidence-based guidelines, point-of-care risk assessment tools, tailored education in genetics-related topics, and other system-level strategies, will facilitate better genetics and primary care integration, which in turn, may improve genetic service delivery to patients residing in underserved communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann F Chou
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), 900 NE 10th St., Oklahoma City, OK, 73151, USA.
| | | | - Gene Hallford
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - David M Kelley
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), 900 NE 10th St., Oklahoma City, OK, 73151, USA
| | - Lori Williamson Dean
- Department of Genetic Counseling, College of Health Professions, The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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21
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Cohen AJ, Shur N, Starin D, MacLeod E, Roshan Lal T, Leon E, Regier DS. Pediatric medical genetics house call: Telemedicine for the next generation of patients and providers. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2021; 187:55-63. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J. Cohen
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Natasha Shur
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Danielle Starin
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Erin MacLeod
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Tamanna Roshan Lal
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Eyby Leon
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Debra S. Regier
- Genetics and Metabolism Children's National Hospital Washington District of Columbia USA
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22
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Shur N, Atabaki SM, Kisling MS, Tabarani A, Williams C, Fraser JL, S. Regier D, Summar M. Rapid deployment of a telemedicine care model for genetics and metabolism during COVID-19. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 185:68-72. [PMID: 33051968 PMCID: PMC7675281 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The national importance of telemedicine for safe and effective patient care has been highlighted by the current COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the 2020 pandemic the Division of Genetics and Metabolism piloted a telemedicine program focused on initial and follow-up visits in the patients' home. The goals were to increase access to care, decrease missed work, improve scheduling, and avoid the transport and exposure of medically fragile patients. Visits were conducted by physician medical geneticists, genetic counselors, and biochemical dietitians, together and separately. This allowed the program to develop detailed standard operating procedures. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, this pilot-program was deployed by the full team of 22 providers in one business day. Two physicians remained on-site for patients requiring in-person evaluations. This model optimized patient safety and workforce preservation while providing full access to patients during a pandemic. We provide initial data on visit numbers, types of diagnoses, and no-show rates. Experience in this implementation before and during the pandemic has confirmed the effectiveness and value of telemedicine for a highly complex medical population. This program is a model that can and will be continued well-beyond the current crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Shur
- Children's National HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | | | | | - Abir Tabarani
- Children's National HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | | | - Jamie L. Fraser
- Children's National HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Debra S. Regier
- Children's National HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Marshall Summar
- Children's National HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
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23
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Mena R, Mendoza E, Peña MG, Valencia CA, Ullah E, Hufnagel RB, Prada CE. An international telemedicine program for diagnosis of genetic disorders: Partnership of pediatrician and geneticist. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 184:996-1008. [PMID: 33219631 PMCID: PMC8830380 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
There is a shortage of genetics providers worldwide and access is limited to large academic centers. Telemedicine programs can facilitate access to genetic services to patients living in remote locations. The goal of this study was to improve access to genetic services in the Dominican Republic by creating a partnership model between a pediatrician and geneticist. This approach has been used within the United States but not in the setting of two different countries, healthcare system, and cultures. Patients were referred to the Centro de Obstetricia y Ginecologia program if a syndromic or genetic etiology was suspected by their local provider. Pediatrician first evaluated all patients prior to telemedicine appointment to review family and medical history. All genetic visits were scheduled within 2 weeks of referral in collaboration with telehealth program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. A total of 66 individuals were evaluated during a period of 5 years. Fifty-seven individuals underwent genetic studies, and a molecular diagnosis was made in 39 individuals. Exome sequencing was the most common first line test when differential diagnosis was broad (n = 40). The most common inheritance was autosomal recessive in 15 individuals, followed by 13 individuals with autosomal dominant disorders, 7 individuals X-linked disorders, and 4 individuals with chromosomal abnormalities. This study provides data to support utility of geneticist and pediatrician partnership to provide outreach telemedicine diagnostics and management services for rare diseases in an international setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Mena
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centro de Obstetricia y Ginecologia, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Division of Neonatology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Esperanza Mendoza
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centro de Obstetricia y Ginecologia, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | | | - C. Alexander Valencia
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Ehsan Ullah
- Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Robert B. Hufnagel
- Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Carlos E. Prada
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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24
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Barsom EZ, van Hees E, Bemelman WA, Schijven MP. Measuring patient satisfaction with video consultation: a systematic review of assessment tools and their measurement properties. Int J Technol Assess Health Care 2020; 36:1-7. [PMID: 32624044 DOI: 10.1017/s0266462320000367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Video consultation (VC) is considered promising in delivering healthcare closer to the patient and improving patient satisfaction. Indeed, providing care-at-distance via VC is believed to be promising for some situations and patients, serving their needs without associated concomitant costs. In order to assess implementation and perceived benefits, patient satisfaction is frequently measured. Measuring patient satisfaction with VC in healthcare is often performed using quantitative and qualitative outcome analysis. As studies employ different surveys, pooling of data on the topic is troublesome. This systematic review critically appraises, summarizes, and compares available questionnaires in order to identify the most suitable questionnaire for qualitative outcome research using VC in clinical outpatient care. METHODS PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were searched for relevant articles using predefined inclusion criteria. Methodological quality appraisal of yielded questionnaires to assess VC was performed using the validated COSMIN guideline. RESULTS This systematic search identified twelve studies that used ten different patient satisfaction questionnaires. The overall quality of nine questionnaires was rated as "inadequate" to "doubtful" according to the COSMIN criteria. None of the questionnaires retrieved completed a robust validation process for the purpose of use. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Although high-quality studies on measurement properties of these questionnaires are scarce, the questionnaire developed by Mekhjian has the highest methodological quality achieving validity on internal consistency and the use of a large sample size. Moreover, this questionnaire can be used across healthcare settings. This finding may be instrumental in further studies measuring patient satisfaction with VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Z Barsom
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ewout van Hees
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willem A Bemelman
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marlies P Schijven
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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25
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Gyselaers W, Lanssens D, Perry H, Khalil A. Mobile Health Applications for Prenatal Assessment and Monitoring. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:615-623. [PMID: 30894100 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190320140659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A mobile health application is an exciting, fast-paced domain that is likely to improve prenatal care. METHODS In this narrative review, we summarise the use of mobile health applications in this setting with a special emphasis on both the benefits of remote monitoring devices and the potential pitfalls of their use, highlighting the need for robust regulations and guidelines before their widespread introduction into prenatal care. RESULTS Remote monitoring devices for four areas of prenatal care are reported: (1) cardio-tocography; (2) blood glucose levels; (3) blood pressure; and (4) prenatal ultrasound. The majority of publications are pilot projects on remote consultation, education, coaching, screening, monitoring and selective booking, mostly reporting potential medical and/or economic benefits by mobile health applications over conventional care for very specific situations, indications and locations, but not always generalizable. CONCLUSIONS Despite the potential advantages of these devices, some caution must be taken when implementing this technology into routine daily practice. To date, the majority of published research on mobile health in the prenatal setting consists of observational studies and there is a need for high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm the reported clinical and economic benefits as well as the safety of this technology. There is also a need for guidance and governance on the development and validation of new apps and devices and for the implementation of mobile health technology into healthcare systems in both high and low-income settings. Finally, digital communication technologies offer perspectives towards exploration and development of the very new domain of tele-pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfried Gyselaers
- Department of Obstetrics, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium; 2Department of Physiology, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of Physiology, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Dorien Lanssens
- Department of Physiology, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Mobile Health Unit, Facultiy of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Helen Perry
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom.,Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Blackshaw Road, London, SW17 0QT, United Kingdom
| | - Asma Khalil
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom.,Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Blackshaw Road, London, SW17 0QT, United Kingdom
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26
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Pestoff R, Johansson P, Nilsen P, Gunnarsson C. Factors influencing use of telegenetic counseling: perceptions of health care professionals in Sweden. J Community Genet 2019; 10:407-415. [PMID: 30617812 PMCID: PMC6591505 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-018-00404-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic counseling services are increasing in demand and limited in access due to barriers such as lack of professional genetic counselors, vast geographic distances, and physical hurdles. This research focuses on an alternative mode of delivery for genetic counseling in Sweden, in order to overcome some of the mentioned barriers. The aim of this study is to identify factors that influence the implementation and use of telegenetic counseling in clinical practice, according to health care professionals in Southeast Sweden. Telegenetic counseling refers to the use of video-conferencing as a means to provide genetic counseling. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 16 genetic counseling providers took place and phenomenographic analysis was applied. Significant excerpts were identified in each transcript, which led to sub-categories that constructed the main findings. Three categories emerged from the data: (1) requirements for optimal use, (2) impact on clinical practice, and (3) patient benefits. Each category consists of two or three sub-categories, in total seven sub-categories. These findings could potentially be used to improve access and uptake of telegenetic counseling in Sweden and in other countries with a similar health care system. This could benefit not only remote patient populations, as described in previous research, but also large family groups and patients experiencing obstacles in accessing genetic counseling, such as those with a psychiatric illness or time constraints, and be a useful way to make genetic counseling available in the new era of genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecka Pestoff
- Centre for Rare Diseases in Southeast Region of Sweden, Linköping University, 58185, Linköping, Sweden.
- Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
- Department of Genetics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Peter Johansson
- Department of Social and Welfare Studies, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
- Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
| | - Per Nilsen
- Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Gunnarsson
- Centre for Rare Diseases in Southeast Region of Sweden, Linköping University, 58185, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Genetics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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27
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Le LB, Rahal HK, Viramontes MR, Meneses KG, Dong TS, Saab S. Patient Satisfaction and Healthcare Utilization Using Telemedicine in Liver Transplant Recipients. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:1150-1157. [PMID: 30519848 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-018-5397-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-liver transplantation care is limited to tertiary care centers. Concentration at expert centers leads to high-volume clinics with long wait times and decreased accessibility. AIM To assess whether telemedicine can be utilized to overcome barriers to care while sustaining strong patient-physician relationships. METHODS The Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire-18, Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire, and Health Utilization Questionnaire were used to assess patient satisfaction and healthcare utilization among patients who received care via video connection (telemedicine group) and in clinic (control group). Propensity matching was performed. Scores for questionnaires were reported as mean and standard deviations (SD) and were compared by one-way multivariate analysis of variance and one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS There were 21 matched telemedicine patients in our study. Overall mean age (± SD) was 51 (± 5.62) years and 52 (± 6.12) years for telemedicine group and control group, respectively. General patient satisfaction was similar between the two groups (p = 0.89). While telemedicine patients were just as satisfied with communication and interpersonal approach compared to clinic patients, they experienced significantly less commute (p < 0.0001) and waiting (p < 0.0001) times. Given ease of using telemedicine without compromising patient-physician interaction, 90% (19/21) of the telemedicine patients opted to use the service again. CONCLUSION Telemedicine appeared to be both a time and cost-saving alternative to clinic follow-up without compromise of the valuable patient-physician relationship. Telemedicine has the potential to improve clinic flow, reduce wait times, and decrease costs for liver transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long B Le
- Olive View Medical Center, University of California at Los Angeles, Sylmar, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Harman K Rahal
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matthew R Viramontes
- Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Katherine G Meneses
- Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tien S Dong
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sammy Saab
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Pfleger Liver Institute, UCLA Medical Center, 200 Medical Plaza, Suite 214, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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28
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A Comprehensive Program Enabling Effective Delivery of Regional Genetic Counseling. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2019; 28:996-1002. [PMID: 29664846 DOI: 10.1097/igc.0000000000001256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to demonstrate the utility of a comprehensive program involving management-based evidence, telemedicine, and patient navigation to provide genetic counseling services for patients with ovarian and breast cancer across a geographically large health care system. METHODS We identified all patients with newly diagnosed ovarian and breast cancer in our health care system from January 2013 to December 2015 through the cancer registry. Referral characteristics and testing outcomes were recorded for each year and compared using the χ or Fisher exact test. RESULTS Because the implementation of this program, the number of new ovarian cancer cases remained constant (109-112 cases/year) but patients referred for genetic counseling increased annually from 37% to 43% to 96% (P < 0.05). The percentage of ovarian cancer patients who underwent genetic testing increased annually from 24% to 27% to 53% (P < 0.05). The number of new breast cancer patients was constant (1543-1638 cases/year). The percentage of patients with triple negative breast cancer referred for genetic counseling rose from 69% in 2013 to 91% in 2015; the percentage of patients who underwent testing increased annually from 59% to 86% (P < 0.05). Of women with breast cancer diagnosed at less than 45 years of age, 78% to 85% were referred for genetic counseling across this period; the percentage of patients who underwent testing increased annually from 66% to 82% (P < 0.05). Patient navigation was initiated and was available to all patients in the system during this period. Telemedicine consults were performed in 118 breast/ovarian patients (6%) during this period. CONCLUSIONS A comprehensive program may improve access to effective genetic counseling services in patients with ovarian and breast cancer despite geographic barriers.
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29
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Cohen SA, Bradbury A, Henderson V, Hoskins K, Bednar E, Arun BK. Genetic Counseling and Testing in a Community Setting: Quality, Access, and Efficiency. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2019; 39:e34-e44. [PMID: 31099680 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_238937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing need for genetic counseling and testing for individuals diagnosed with cancer, as treatment may be affected by the results. In addition, the identification of individuals before a diagnosis of cancer allows for optimal surveillance and early detection and prevention of cancer. With the recognition that as much as 10% of all cancers are hereditary, there is a growing need to improve access to genetic counseling and genetic testing, both before and at the time of diagnosis. This article focuses on models of identifying at-risk patients, including underserved communities; providing genetic counseling and testing in community practices; using telehealth; and collaborating with nongenetics health care providers and technological solutions to maximize efficiency and access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Cohen
- 1 Cancer Genetics Risk Assessment Program, Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Angela Bradbury
- 2 Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Kent Hoskins
- 3 The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Erica Bednar
- 4 The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Banu K Arun
- 4 The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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30
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Katapodi MC, Jung M, Schafenacker AM, Milliron KJ, Mendelsohn-Victor KE, Merajver SD, Northouse LL. Development of a Web-based Family Intervention for BRCA Carriers and Their Biological Relatives: Acceptability, Feasibility, and Usability Study. JMIR Cancer 2018; 4:e7. [PMID: 29653920 PMCID: PMC5924376 DOI: 10.2196/cancer.9210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Carriers of breast cancer gene (BRCA) mutations are asked to communicate genetic test results to their biological relatives to increase awareness of cancer risk and promote use of genetic services. This process is highly variable from family to family. Interventions that support communication of genetic test results, coping, and offer decision support in families harboring a pathogenic variant may contribute to effective management of hereditary cancer. Objective The aim of this paper was to describe the development of the Family Gene Toolkit, a Web-based intervention targeting BRCA carriers and untested blood relatives, designed to enhance coping, family communication, and decision making. Methods We present findings from focus groups regarding intervention acceptability and participant satisfaction and from a pre-post pilot study with random allocation to a wait-listed control group regarding intervention feasibility and usability. Results The Family Gene Toolkit was developed by a multidisciplinary team as a psycho-educational and skills-building intervention. It includes two live webinar sessions and a follow-up phone call guided by a certified genetic counselor and a master’s prepared oncology nurse. Each live webinar includes two modules (total four modules) presenting information about BRCA mutations, a decision aid for genetic testing, and two skill-building modules for effective coping and family communication. Participants in focus groups (n=11) were highly satisfied with the intervention, reporting it to be useful and describing clearly the important issues. From the 12 dyads recruited in the pre-post pilot study (response rate 12/52, 23%), completion rate was 71% (10/14) for intervention and 40% (4/10) for wait-listed control groups. Conclusions Acceptability and satisfaction with the Family Gene Toolkit is high. On the basis of the findings from usability and feasibility testing, modifications on timing, delivery mode, and recruitment methods have been implemented. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02154633; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02154633 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6yYNvLPjv)
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Katapodi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Miyeon Jung
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | | | - Kara J Milliron
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Sofia D Merajver
- Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Voils CI, Venne VL, Weidenbacher H, Sperber N, Datta S. Comparison of Telephone and Televideo Modes for Delivery of Genetic Counseling: a Randomized Trial. J Genet Couns 2017; 27:339-348. [PMID: 29243007 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0189-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Telephone and televideo have yielded equivalent patient satisfaction and psychosocial outcomes when compared to in-person genetic counseling, yet little is known about how they compare to one another. In this randomized controlled trial, veterans received genetic counseling via telephone or traveled to a clinic to participate via encrypted televideo. Knowledge and visit satisfaction were assessed 2 weeks later. Travel time, mileage, and out-of-pocket costs were calculated for videoconferencing. Qualitative interviews were conducted with patients and counselors to assess acceptability. Of the 20 male patients randomized to telephone, 90% received counseling and provided outcomes; of the 18 randomized to televideo, 67% received counseling and 50% provided outcomes. Telephone patients answered a mean of 4.4 of eight questions correctly at baseline and 4.7 at follow-up; televideo means were 5.6 and 6.5, respectively. Satisfaction was 25.2 out of 30 for telephone and 26.9 for televideo. Televideo patients incurred a median of 2.8 h of travel time, 40 roundtrip miles, and $67.29 in costs. Patients and counselors found both modes acceptable for providing education and answering questions. Although patients liked the flexibility of telephone, counselors felt patients missed more appointments and were distracted when using telephone. A noted advantage of videoconferencing was reading body language. Further evaluation of alternative delivery modes is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrine I Voils
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA. .,Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 600 Highland Ave, K6/100 CSC, Madison, WI, 53792-1690, USA.
| | - Vickie L Venne
- Genomic Medicine Service VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Nina Sperber
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Santanu Datta
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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Weissman SM, Zellmer K, Gill N, Wham D. Implementing a Virtual Health Telemedicine Program in a Community Setting. J Genet Couns 2017; 27:323-325. [PMID: 29204808 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0177-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Aurora Health Care in eastern Wisconsin has a clinical genetics program driven by genetic counselors in the cancer/adult and prenatal genetics settings. In 2015, the workforce shortage of genetic counselors left us with 4 open positions for genetic counselors that we were unable to fill. We explored many models of alternative service delivery, and determined virtual health (VH) via telemedicine to be the best option for our system. Historically, telemedicine technologies have been used to provide access to healthcare services to patients in remote areas. We, however, were struggling to find genetics counselors to staff both our remote clinics and urban clinics. To solve this problem, we recruited genetic counselors from across the country to work remotely from their current home or home office utilizing VH to staff our clinics. We then created clinical workflows and an implementation process of virtual health for 9 prenatal and cancer clinics across the eastern Wisconsin footprint of our healthcare system over the course of 12 months. Here we provide our experience and process in establishing a VH program in order to help other institutions that have been affected by the workforce shortage of clinical genetics professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M Weissman
- Genomic Medicine Program, Aurora Health Care, 2900 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA.
| | - Kate Zellmer
- Genomic Medicine Program, Aurora Health Care, 2900 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA
| | - Nicole Gill
- Genomic Medicine Program, Aurora Health Care, 2900 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA
| | - Deborah Wham
- Genomic Medicine Program, Aurora Health Care, 2900 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA
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Hardy MW, Grinzaid KA. Benefits and Challenges of Telemedicine: the JScreen Program Experience. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40142-017-0121-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Desai AV, Perpich M, Godley LA. Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis of Germline Predisposition to Hematopoietic Malignancies: The University of Chicago Experience. Front Pediatr 2017; 5:252. [PMID: 29270394 PMCID: PMC5723667 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2017.00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
With the increasing use of clinical genomics to guide cancer treatment and management, there is a rise in the identification of germline cancer predisposition syndromes and a critical need for patients with germline findings to be referred for surveillance and care. The University of Chicago Hematopoietic Malignancies Cancer Risk Team has established a unique approach to patient care for individuals with hereditary hematologic malignancies through close communication and coordination between our pediatric and adult programs. Dedicated program members, including physicians, nurses, genetic counselors, and clinical research assistants, screen individuals for cancer predisposition at initial diagnosis through survivorship, in addition to testing individuals with an established family history of a cancer predisposition syndrome. Sample procurement, such as a skin biopsy at the time of bone marrow aspirate/biopsy in individuals with a positive screen, has facilitated timely identification of clinical germline findings or has served as a pipeline for translational research. Our integrated translational research program has led to the identification of novel syndromes in collaboration with other investigators, which have been incorporated iteratively into our clinical pipeline. Individuals are referred for clinical assessment based on personal and family history, identification of variants in susceptibility genes via molecular tumor testing, and during evaluation for matched related allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Upon referral, genetic counseling incorporates education with mindfulness of the psychosocial issues surrounding germline testing at different ages. The training and role of genetic counselors continues to grow, with the discovery of new predisposition syndromes, in the age of improved molecular diagnostics and new models for service delivery, such as telemedicine. With the identification of new syndromes that may predispose individuals to hematologic malignancies, surveillance guidelines will continue to evolve and may differ between children and adults. Thus, utilizing a collaborative approach between the pediatric and adult oncology programs facilitates care within families and optimizes the diagnosis and care of individuals with cancer predisposition syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ami V Desai
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Melody Perpich
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lucy A Godley
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Human Genetics, Section of Hematology/Oncology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Telegenetics: an Update on Availability and Use of Telemedicine in Clinical Genetics Service. J Med Syst 2016; 41:21. [DOI: 10.1007/s10916-016-0666-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Bradbury A, Patrick-Miller L, Harris D, Stevens E, Egleston B, Smith K, Mueller R, Brandt A, Stopfer J, Rauch S, Forman A, Kim R, Fetzer D, Fleisher L, Daly M, Domchek S. Utilizing Remote Real-Time Videoconferencing to Expand Access to Cancer Genetic Services in Community Practices: A Multicenter Feasibility Study. J Med Internet Res 2016; 18:e23. [PMID: 26831751 PMCID: PMC4754531 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.4564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Videoconferencing has been used to expand medical services to low-access populations and could increase access to genetic services at community sites where in-person visits with genetic providers are not available. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the feasibility of, patient feedback of, and cognitive and affective responses to remote two-way videoconferencing (RVC) telegenetic services at multiple sociodemographically diverse community practices without access to genetic providers. METHODS Patients at 3 community sites in 2 US states outside the host center completed RVC pretest (visit 1, V1) and post-test (visit 2, V2) genetic counseling for cancer susceptibility. Surveys evaluated patient experiences, knowledge, satisfaction with telegenetic and cancer genetics services, anxiety, depression, and cancer worry. RESULTS A total of 82 out of 100 (82.0%) approached patients consented to RVC services. A total of 61 out of 82 patients (74%) completed pretest counseling and 41 out of 61 (67%) proceeded with testing and post-test counseling. A total of 4 out of 41 (10%) mutation carriers were identified: BRCA2, MSH2, and PMS2. Patients reported many advantages (eg, lower travel burden and convenience) and few disadvantages to RVC telegenetic services. Most patients reported feeling comfortable with the video camera--post-V1: 52/57 (91%); post-V2: 39/41 (95%)--and that their privacy was respected--post-V1: 56/57 (98%); post-V2: 40/41 (98%); however, some reported concerns that RVC might increase the risk of a confidentiality breach of their health information--post-V1: 14/57 (25%); post-V2: 12/41 (29%). While the majority of patients reported having no trouble seeing or hearing the genetic counselor--post-V1: 47/57 (82%); post-V2: 39/41 (95%)--51 out of 98 (52%) patients reported technical difficulties. Nonetheless, all patients reported being satisfied with genetic services. Compared to baseline, knowledge increased significantly after pretest counseling (+1.11 mean score, P=.005); satisfaction with telegenetic (+1.74 mean score, P=.02) and genetic services (+2.22 mean score, P=.001) increased after post-test counseling. General anxiety and depression decreased after pretest (-0.97 mean anxiety score, P=.003; -0.37 mean depression score, P=.046) and post-test counseling (-1.13 mean anxiety score, P=.003; -0.75 mean depression score, P=.01); state anxiety and cancer-specific worry did not significantly increase. CONCLUSIONS Remote videoconferencing telegenetic services are feasible, identify genetic carriers in community practices, and are associated with high patient satisfaction and favorable cognitive and affective outcomes, suggesting an innovative delivery model for further study to improve access to genetic providers and services. Potential barriers to dissemination include technology costs, unclear billing and reimbursement, and state requirements for provider licensure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bradbury
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Online genetic counseling from the providers' perspective: counselors' evaluations and a time and cost analysis. Eur J Hum Genet 2016; 24:1255-61. [PMID: 26785833 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2015.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine applications are increasingly being introduced in patient care in various disciplines, including clinical genetics, mainly to increase access to care and to reduce time and costs for patients and professionals. Most telegenetics reports describe applications in large geographical areas, showing positive patients' and professionals' satisfaction. One economic analysis published thus far reported lower costs than in-person care. We hypothesized that telegenetics can also be beneficial from the professional's view in relatively small geographical areas. We performed a pilot study in the Northern Netherlands of 51 home-based online counseling sessions for cardiogenetic and oncogenetic cascade screening, and urgent prenatal counseling. Previously, we showed patient satisfaction, anxiety, and perceived control of online counseling to be comparable to in-person counseling. This study focuses on expectations, satisfaction, and practical evaluations of the involved counselors, and the impact in terms of time and costs. Most counselors expected disadvantages of online counseling for themselves and their patients, mainly concerning insufficient non-verbal communication; few expected advantages for themselves. Afterwards, counselors additionally raised the disadvantage of insufficient verbal communication, and reported frequent technical problems. Their overall mean telemedicine satisfaction itemscore was 3.38 before, and 2.95 afterwards, being afterwards slightly below the minimum level we set for a satisfactory result. We estimated reduced time and costs by online counseling with about 8% and 10-12%, respectively. We showed online genetic counseling to be effective, feasible and cost-efficient, but technical improvements are needed to increase counselors' satisfaction.
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