Journal article
Opportunities to optimize patient experience in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic and the role of genetic counselors
Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics, Vol.42(1), pp.153-164
01/2025
DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03313-4
PMCID: PMC11806181
PMID: 39543059
Abstract
Purpose
To understand factors influencing patient satisfaction with genetics education and psychosocial support in an IVF clinic without a genetic counselor (GC), and how the role of a GC may fill gaps in care using a mixed-method cross-sectional study.
Methods
Previous IVF patients (n = 133) completed a survey assessing satisfaction with genetics education and psychosocial support and decisional conflict about genetic testing. Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to compare satisfaction level to demographic and clinical variables. Spearman’s correlation was used to analyze decisional conflict. Focus groups with 12 total participants expanded on themes identified in survey responses. Thematic analysis was performed using interpretive description.
Results
Participants reported satisfaction with their genetics education experience (78.9% somewhat or extremely satisfied). Satisfaction with genetics education was associated with satisfaction with information received about genetic testing results (H = 21.3, p < 0.01) and confidence using results in future decisions (H = 9.9, p < 0.01). Participants desired thorough pre-test and post-test counseling regarding genetic testing and directive guidance. Decision conflict about genetic testing was low (mean of 22.3, range 0–100). Satisfaction with genetics education was inversely correlated with decisional conflict (rs = − 0.42, p < 0.05). In-person GC visit scored highest among proposed education methods (mean score of 84.1).
Conclusions
Patients felt satisfied with genetics education and psychosocial support provided by clinical providers. Gaps in care included misconceptions regarding genetic testing, a desire for more thorough counseling about genetic testing options, more directive guidance, and increased psychosocial support through external sources such as support groups.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Opportunities to optimize patient experience in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic and the role of genetic counselors
- Creators
- Nour Chanouha - University of Iowa Health CareRenata Thoeny - University of Iowa Health CareKaren Summers - University of Iowa Health CareAlithea Zorn - University of Iowa, EpidemiologyHakan DuranKendra Schaa - University of Iowa Health Care
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics, Vol.42(1), pp.153-164
- DOI
- 10.1007/s10815-024-03313-4
- PMID
- 39543059
- PMCID
- PMC11806181
- NLM abbreviation
- J Assist Reprod Genet
- ISSN
- 1058-0468
- eISSN
- 1573-7330
- Publisher
- SPRINGER/PLENUM PUBLISHERS
- Grant note
- National Society of Genetic Counselors Assisted Reproductive Technology and Infertility Special Interest GroupDivision of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Iowa through the Center for Advancement
Financial support for this project was provided by the National Society of Genetic Counselors Assisted Reproductive Technology and Infertility Special Interest Group and by the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Iowa through the Center for Advancement.
- Language
- English
- Electronic publication date
- 11/15/2024
- Date published
- 01/2025
- Academic Unit
- Epidemiology; Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Record Identifier
- 9984749496902771
Metrics
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