Genetics and genetic testing: Are GPs likely to attend training courses?

Background. GPs must make difficult screening and diagnostic decisions regarding genetic testing for different cancers. Educational programs may improve knowledge and enable more appropriate referral. Methods. A postal survey of all general practitioners (GPs) in Northern Ireland (N = 534; response rate = 49.4%) asked GPs if they would attend 3 different types of training courses in genetics. Results. Almost 75% indicated that they would be likely and/or very likely to attend such courses. Women and GPs who had been qualified recently were most likely to attend (P < .005, P < .05). Conclusion. The results suggest that GPs are interested in training courses. Male GPs and GPs who have been qualified for longer should be specifically targeted.