Elsevier

Genetics in Medicine

Volume 2, Issue 3, May–June 2000, Pages 180-185
Genetics in Medicine

Article
Family history-taking in community family practice: Implications for genetic screening

https://doi.org/10.1097/00125817-200005000-00004Get rights and content
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Abstract

Purpose

To identify characteristics of physicians, patients, and visits associated with obtaining family history information in community family practice.

Methods

Research nurses directly observed 4454 patient visits to 138 family physicians and reviewed office medical records.

Results

Family history was discussed during 51% of visits by new patients and 22% of visits by established patients. Physicians’ rates of family history-taking varied from 0% to 81% of visits. Family history was more often discussed at well care rather than illness visits. The average duration of family history discussions was < 2.5 minutes.

Conclusions

These data can form the basis for realistic interventions to increase the use of family history in primary care.

Key Words

Family history
primary care
family practice
genetic services

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