The genetics liaison nurse role as a means of educating and supporting primary care professionals.

BACKGROUND

Previous research with primary health care professionals has demonstrated consistently that education, training and support are necessary before there should be any expansion in primary care genetics. The genetic liaison nurse role has been suggested as one means of providing this education and support.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate GP responses to the genetics liaison nurse role as a means of supporting community-based genetics services.

METHODS

A self-completion postal questionnaire in primary care was sent to GPs working in Nottingham. Main outcome measures were assessment of potential usage of a genetic outreach professional in terms of time, roles and support for a pilot scheme

RESULTS

A total of 182 (55.0%) of 331 GPs working in Nottingham returned a questionnaire. Although 54% did not believe that the genetics liaison nurse role would be useful in the present, most believed that such a role would definitely or probably (64%) be useful in the future. The most valued contribution was as a source of advice when genetics problems arise in a consultation. Providing education on specific genetic disorders and on clinical skills relevant to genetics were also seen as important. Many GPs would also use a liaison nurse to see patients prior to their attending an out-patient clinic with a clinical geneticist. Respondents suggested that each nurse should spend approximately 3 hours a month in each practice and be attached to between 10 and 20 practices.

CONCLUSIONS

GPs appreciate that there may be limited genetics services provided in primary care at present, but this is likely to change in the near future. The genetics liaison nurse role should be evaluated as a means of providing genetics specialist outreach support for service delivery and to facilitate education.