Utility of eConsult to enhance delivery of cancer genetic services and identify hereditary cancer knowledge gaps in primary care

Le résumé fourni par la source

Purpose: This study analyzed the utility of electronic consultation (eConsult) for hereditary cancer (HC) and aimed to identify primary care practitioner (PCP) knowledge gaps. Methods: A retrospective mixed-methods study was used to evaluate 200 randomly selected PCP eConsult cases submitted to cancer genetics specialists in Ontario, Canada. Results: In 65% (129/200) of eConsults, PCPs indicated they received clear advice for a new course of action. In 34% (68/200), referral was contemplated but now avoided. In 8% (16/200), referral was advised when not originally planned. For 89% (177/200), eConsult was considered valuable. For most, (63%, 125/200), PCPs agreed eConsult addressed a clinical problem that should be incorporated into continuing medical education. PCPs' questions were mainly about cancer screening (114), genetic testing (107), or genetics referral (76). Geneticist recommendations were mainly about cancer screening (154), genetics referral (104), and the High-Risk Ontario Breast Cancer Screening Program (41). PCP knowledge gaps identified included cancer screening guidelines (112), genetics referral criteria (100), High-Risk Ontario Breast Cancer Screening Program screening criteria (71), and understanding of genetics principles (237). Conclusion: eConsult is an effective tool for PCP access to HC specialists. Identifiable knowledge gaps emerge that could be used to enhance continuing medical education and drive innovative HC service delivery.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.