Addressing healthcare practitioner genetic knowledge, attitude and practices in Gauteng, South Africa – preparation for an educational intervention

Abstract

Abstract Background Genetic testing and services are becoming increasingly important in generalised healthcare. Genetic information is now used in the diagnosis and treatment of more common diseases and is no longer restricted to solely rare diseases. General practitioners and other primary healthcare practitioners are often the first port of call when a patient is seeking genetic information. However, many healthcare practitioners lack the appropriate knowledge and skills to assist patients with genetic-related health concerns. To date, there is no data available on the extent of knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (practices) of healthcare practitioners in the Gauteng province of South Africa. This project aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and behaviours towards genetics and genetic testing in healthcare practitioners practising in primary healthcare in the Gauteng province of South Africa. Methods A pre-validated questionnaire was adapted and implemented for the local healthcare environment in the private healthcare sector in Gauteng, South Africa. The questionnaire, presented online and in-person, investigated genetic knowledge, behaviours and attitudes towards genetics and genetic testing. Results Sixty-one healthcare practitioners responded to the questionnaire, of which 95% were trained at South African medical schools. General practitioners, pathologists, physiotherapists and specialists answered six questionnaire sections. Self-reported genetics knowledge was poor/very poor for 70% of participants. Current genetics knowledge is insufficient to cope with the anticipated demand for genetic information in primary healthcare. Ninety-three percent of respondents displayed appropriate behaviour when faced with genetics scenarios and showed positive attitudes towards providing, and referring to, genetic services. However, access to specific genetic information and resources was limited. Eighty-seven percent of participants expressed an interest in further genetic education linked to continuing professional development points. Conclusion Healthcare practitioners are interested in and expressed positive behaviours and attitudes towards genetics and genetic services, but do not yet have sufficient knowledge to cope with the increasing demand for genetic services.