| Objectives. Genetic testing for cancer predisposition can impact a patient's care yet many physicians do not refer patients due to insurance or employment concerns. New federal legislation, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), protects against genetic discrimination by insurance companies and employers.;The goal of our study is to determine if physicians are aware of this recent legislation and, if so, if this has altered their willingness to recommend genetic testing to their patients.;Methods. Physicians sent an e-mail in which they were asked to complete an anonymous, online survey.;Results. Fifty-six physicians completed the survey. Over half (57.1%) were unaware of the passage of GINA. Over a third (37.5%) said they felt the law could make them more likely to recommend genetic testing.;Conclusions. It appears that concerns remain regarding genetic discrimination despite GINA. This represents an opportunity for raising awareness of these issues and the new federal protections. |
