[Dissemination of genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis: impact of the physicians' knowledge]

Abstract

This article presents a survey carried out among 2,549 doctors (general practitioners, pediatricians, obstetricians and gynecologists) practicing in two south of France "departements" (administrative subdivisions): Bouches-du-Rhône and Hautes-Alpes. The influence of socio-demographic and professional characteristics on knowledge of prenatal diagnosis indicators is studied here for each specialty. While knowledge among general practitioners is apparently a product of their formal education, among gynecologists and obstetricians the most important factor seems to be professional experience. In France, the GP is a central figure in referrals for genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis, hence the importance of improving his training and possibilities of continuing education.