					Please visit our sponsors



*A fresh new voice!*

Home Genetic Testing Kits: Not What the Doctor Ordered

Majority of physicians are not likely to recommend home testing kits to patients

Flemington, NJ, May 13, 2010 – Results of a new national media study among 693 physicians revealed that the majority of physicians (71 percent) reported that it is not appropriate for pharmacies to sell home genetic testing kits.
The study was conducted during May 12-13 by HCD Research using its MediaCurves.com® website, to obtain physicians’ perceptions of a news report that Walgreens pharmacies will sell home genetic testing kits that assess the risk of developing dozens of health conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, breast cancer and heart disease. To view detailed results go to: www.mediacurves.com.
The majority of physicians (59 percent) also indicated that results from a home genetic test kit would have no impact on their treatment plans for patients. In addition, a clear majority of physicians (80 percent) reported that they were either “somewhat unlikely” or “extremely unlikely” to recommend the purchase of home genetic testing kits to their patients.

Among the findings:
Is it appropriate for pharmacies to sell a home genetic testing kit?
Total
Yes
29%
No
71%
Would test results from a home genetic test kit have an impact on your treatment plans for patients?
Total
Yes
41%
No
59%
How likely are you to recommend the purchase of home genetic testing kits to patients?
Total
Extremely likely
2%
Somewhat likely
17%
Somewhat unlikely
31%
Extremely unlikely
49%