For a study, researchers sought to assess genetics teaching effectiveness, satisfaction, and challenges in residency training programs. Adding to the body of evidence supporting the need for its growth and advancement. In 2020–2021, four primary care West Virginia University (WVU) residency training programs received a cross-sectional descriptive self-administered questionnaire survey. General data, satisfaction with genetics training, and impediments to genetics education were among the 14 anonymous survey questionnaire categories. A total of 59 respondents completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 52% (70/123). Respondents generally thought that genetic education was essential for their chosen specialty (90%). At all educational levels, most trainees’ education came from a classroom-based curriculum (77% from lectures, 65% from didactic, and 49% from grand rounds). Most survey participants reported having insufficient experience caring for genetic patients (34% ward genetic consultation, 5% clinic experience, 0% genetic department rotation). The percentage of residents who were satisfied with genetic topics were as follows: basic genetics (57%), capturing family history (82%), initiating basic genetic workup (15%), a basic understanding of the genetic report (23%), essential management surveillance in the genetic patient (18%), understanding the genetic referral and explaining it to a patient (47%). The complexity of the field and the limited applicability of genetic testing (41%) were the two main impediments to the genetic curiosity that residents mentioned (87%). More lectures (61%) and improved promotion of genetic education resources, particularly rotations in the genetics department, were the most often suggested improvements to the genetic education component (22%). Other ideas include genetic education (20%) in inpatient learning and research experience (7%). Primary care residents expressed a significant need for improved practical clinical skills and research experience in their current residency program despite being content with their genetic information gained in the classroom. The survey’s recommendations for improvement can strengthen the genetic education of primary care residents, which could promote the understanding of rare diseases, advance precision medicine, and broaden access to genetic testing.
Source: bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-022-01765-0
