Approaching discussions about genetics with palliative patients and their families: a qualitative exploration with genetic health professionals.

ABSTRACT: Genetic information can provide clinical benefits to families of palliative patients. However, integration of genetics into mainstream medicine has not focused on palliative populations. We explored the views and experiences of genetic health professionals in addressing genetics with palliative patients, and their families. We conducted an interpretive descriptive qualitative study with genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists using interviews and focus groups. Findings were generated using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: (1) Focusing on the benefit to the family, (2) The discomfort of addressing genetics near end-of-life and (3) "It's always on the back-burner": Challenges to getting genetics on the palliative care agenda. Participants discussed the familial

SUBMITTER: White S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9441822 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature