Purpose: We sought to determine whether variation in test-report content for cystic fibrosis (CF DeltaF508) and factor V Leiden (fVL) would impact physician-perceived usefulness of and satisfaction with test reports.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of US physicians from specialties likely to order the tests was performed. Physicians received an introductory letter with a clinical scenario, one randomly assigned mock report, and a one-page survey. The analyses evaluated usefulness of and satisfaction with report elements.
Results: For CF and fVL, there were significant differences by mock-report version for most of the survey report items (P < 0.05) and for satisfaction (P < 0.0001); results revealed greater usefulness and satisfaction with more comprehensive reports. The three items in CF and fVL reports where physician-perceived usefulness was most highly correlated (R > 0.70) with satisfaction were (1.clinical decision-making information, (2). genetic counseling information, and (3). implications for family members.
Conclusion: Opportunities exist to improve the usefulness of genetic test reports in clinical practice.