Differences in physician referral practices and attitudes regarding hereditary breast cancer by clinical practice location.

Abstract

To compare physician referral practices and attitudes regarding hereditary breast cancer by clinical practice location. A self-administered survey of 214 physicians in Ohio's tri-state region. Rural-practice physicians were less likely to have ever referred for an indication of hereditary breast cancer than urban- and suburban-practice physicians combined. Rural-practice physicians reported stronger barriers to referral, including distance, lack of awareness, lack of effective cancer risk reduction, and lack of patient interest. These findings demonstrate a need for increased clinical genetics outreach, physician education, and public awareness of genetic services for hereditary breast cancer in rural areas.