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. 2018 Feb;27(1):33-58.
doi: 10.1007/s10897-017-0145-0. Epub 2017 Oct 12.

Development of FOCUS-GC: Framework for Outcomes of Clinical Communication Services in Genetic Counseling

Deborah Cragun  1 , Heather Zierhut  2
Affiliations

Development of FOCUS-GC: Framework for Outcomes of Clinical Communication Services in Genetic Counseling

Deborah Cragun et al. J Genet Couns. 2018 Feb.

Abstract

Conceptual frameworks bring together existing theories and models in order to identify, consolidate, and fill in gaps between theory, practice, and evidence. Given the vast number of possible outcomes that could be studied in genetic counseling, a framework for organizing outcomes and postulating relationships between communication services and genetic counseling outcomes was sought. Through an iterative approach involving literature review, thematic analysis, and consolidation, outcomes and processes were categorized to create and define components of a conceptual framework. The final product, "Framework for Outcomes of Clinical commUnication Services" (FOCUS) contains the following domains: communication strategy; communication process measures; patient care experience, patient changes, patient health; and family changes. A website was created to allow easier access and ongoing modifications to the framework. In addition, a step-by-step guide and two examples were created to show flexibility in how the framework can be used. FOCUS may help in conceptualizing, organizing and summarizing outcomes research related to risk communication and counseling in genetic service delivery as well as other healthcare settings.

Keywords: Cascade testing; Evaluation; Family communication; Genetic counseling; Genetic services; Patient communication; Patient outcomes.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest

Heather Zierhut, PhD, MS and Deborah Cragun, PhD, MS declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Framework for Outcomes in Clinical Communication Services (FOCUS)
Figure 2
Figure 2
FOCUS on Genetic Counseling to Improve Family Communication and Appropriate Service Utilization
Figure 3
Figure 3
FOCUS on Genetic Counseling to Promote Quality Health Decisions
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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