Abstract
InnovAiT is produced on a 3 year cycle. This section of InnovAiT summarizes articles from the previous cycle of InnovAiT that GPs and GPs in training might still find useful.
Genetics in primary care practice?
Professor Peter Farndon
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 540–3
Advances in our understanding of genetic factors are increasingly influencing clinical management in many specialties. Primary care is ideally placed to identify families at highest risk of genetic conditions. This article explains the role of the GP in the patient pathway for genetic conditions.
What causes genetic disorders?
Dr Chantal Simon and Professor Peter Farndon
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 544–53
Genetics is the science of inheritance. This article aims to define the major types of genetic disorder and provide examples of each.
Taking and recording a family history
Professor Peter Farndon
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 554–60
Taking and recording a family history are key skills in identifying those patients with, or at risk of, a genetic condition. This article explains the reasons for taking a family history, gives guidance on how to take a family history and explains the conventions of family history recording.
Recognizing the common patterns of inheritance in families
Professor Peter Farndon
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 561–74
The largest genetic contribution is made by multifactorial disorders—where genetic factors interact with environmental factors. This mode of inheritance can lead to a clustering of cases within a family. It is also important to identify those families with single gene disorders where genetic testing, surveillance and treatment are currently available. This article highlights the patterns of affected people that would suggest an inherited disorder in the family.
Communicating genetics within primary care practice
Candy Cooley
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 575–8
This article explores areas such as chance and risk that may be difficult when communicating genetics to patients.
Ethical issues in genetic medicine
Professor Anneke Lucassen
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 589–95
Some patients have unrealistic expectations of what genetics can offer and believe it to be more deterministic than it is. Others view genetic testing with a degree of suspicion or worry. It is important that GPs understand the issues involved so that they can explain clearly the advantages and pitfalls of genetic testing to support patient choices.
The role of the practice manager
Catherine Bateman
InnovAiT 2008 1(8): p. 597–99
A strong practice manager is essential if the practice is to grow and be successful in what has become a difficult and challenging economic climate. Only practices with strong managers and a cohesive management style will survive and continue to see growth. This article explores who makes a good practice manager and what a successful practice manager does.