Barriers to access to and uptake of genetic services from the perspectives of genetic professionals

• Main Author: Darmonkow, Valerie Zdravka
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 2012
• Subjects: Newfoundland; Canada
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/2330/; https://research.library.mun.ca/2330/1/Darmonkow_Valerie.pdf; https://research.library.mun.ca/2330/3/Darmonkow_Valerie.pdf

This research examines barriers to the provision of genetic services from the perspectives of genetics professionals working in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Based on open-ended and semi-structured key informant interviews, the study assesses the structure and capacity of the Provincial Genetic Services Program, the referral process and protocols followed, and the social, historical, and cultural factors shaping the utilization of genetic services from the perspectives of those who provide the services. The thesis reports on the factors that support the use of genetic services and factors that deter or decrease this use. It identifies strategies for overcoming challenges to access to and uptake of genetic services. The key findings are incorporated into recommendations to help define areas and directions for improvements in clinical genetics and to provide advice for those who develop and deliver genetic services.