Factors Influencing Patient Discussion of Genetic Test Results with Healthcare Providers: Insights from a Hospital-Based Population Genetic Screening Program.
Publication Title
Genetics in medicine : official journal of the American College of Medical Genetics
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-27-2026
Keywords
Genetic testing; communication; patients; providers.; oregon; portland; core; washington; renton
Abstract
PURPOSE: Genetic screening in general populations completed outside of direct clinical care is increasingly frequent; however, it is unclear if results are then being discussed with providers to determine implications to care plans.
METHODS: Participants in the population-level Geno4ME genome sequencing study were surveyed 12 months after receiving their genetic results to determine whether they discussed results with their provider, and to measure other health care experiences. Analysis explored the impact of demographic and socioeconomic factors, genetic result and self/family history, clinical connection (past year check-up or clinic-based recruitment to Geno4ME), and other patient experiences and motivations.
RESULTS: Only 21% discussed genetic results with their provider. Having a pathogenic variant increased the likelihood of discussing results with a provider (IRR 2.63, p< 0.001) as did having an actionable pharmacogenetic finding (IRR 1.45, p< 0.05). Having a past-year check-up increased likelihood of discussing results with a provider (IRR 2.82, p=0.005), but rates remained low (23%). Black and Asian participants reported lower discussion rates as did those with lower education. Other experiences, such as health anxiety or self-efficacy, were not associated.
CONCLUSION: Most individuals are not discussing their genetic results with their provider, which may limit the clinical benefits of their findings.
Specialty/Research Institute
Population Health
Specialty/Research Institute
Center for Outcomes Research and Education (CORE)
DOI
10.1016/j.gim.2026.102613
