Genetics and genetic testing: are GPs likely to attend training courses?

Background: GPs must make difficult screening and diagnostic decisions regarding genetic testing for different cancers. Educational programs may improve knowledge and enable more appropriate referral.
Methods: A postal survey of all general practitioners (GPs) in Northern Ireland (N = 534; response rate = 49.4%) asked GPs if they would attend 3 different types of training courses in genetics.
Results: Almost 75% indicated that they would be likely and/or very likely to attend such courses. Women and GPs who had been qualified recently were most likely to attend (P < .005, P < .05).
Conclusion: The results suggest that GPs are interested in training courses. Male GPs and GPs who have been qualified for longer should be specifically targeted.