The Gene Messenger Impact Project: An Innovative Genetics Continuing Education Strategy for Primary Care Providers. Issue 3 (2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carroll, June C.; Grad, Roland; Allanson, Judith E.; Pluye, Pierre; Permaul, Joanne A.; Pimlott, Nicholas; Wilson, Brenda J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of continuing education in the health professions. Volume 36:Issue 3(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016
• Subjects: genetics -- continuing education -- primary care -- knowledge translation -- online/computer-based education -- research/evaluation; Medicine -- Study and teaching (Continuing education) -- Periodicals; Paramedical education -- Periodicals; Medical education -- Periodicals; 610.7
• DOI: 10.1097/CEH.0000000000000079
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0894-1912

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Primary care providers (PCP) will need to be integrally involved in the delivery of genomic medicine. The GenetiKit trial demonstrated effectiveness of a knowledge translation intervention on family physicians' (FP) genetics referral decision-making. Most wanted to continue receiving Gene Messengers ( GM ), evidence-based summaries of new genetic tests with primary care recommendations. Our objective was to determine the value of GMs as a continuing education (CE) strategy in genomic medicine for FPs. Methods: Using a "push" model, we invited 19, 060 members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada to participate. Participants read GMs online, receiving 12 emailed topics over 6 months. Participants completed an online Information Assessment Method questionnaire evaluating GMs on four constructs: cognitive impact, relevance, intended use of information for a patient, and expected health benefits. Results: One thousand four hundred two FPs participated, 55% rated at least one GM . Most (73%) indicated their practice would be improved after reading GMs, with referral to genetics ranked highly. Of those who rated a GM relevant, 94% would apply it to at least one patient and 79% would expect health benefits. This method of CE was found useful for genetics by 88% and 94% wanted to continue receiving GMs . Discussion: FPs found this novel CE strategy, brief individual reflective e-learning, to be valuable for learning about genetics. This method of information delivery may be an especially effective method for CE in genomic medicine where discoveries occur at a rapid pace and lack of knowledge is a barrier to integration of genetic services. Abstract : Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text.