Abstract
This exploratory study examines the role of rurality in referrals from primary care to the Cancer Genetics Service for Wales (CGSW) through a case study of referrals from Montgomeryshire, a predominantly rural area in mid-Wales located adjacent to the English border. Awareness of CGSW amongst practitioners is low. We found that rurality plays a role in referral behaviour as distance, time travelling and accessibility by car and public transport are all perceived to have an impact on the patient's decision to attend a clinic appointment. Some patients are being referred outside Wales as ease of access to services is considered more important than distance.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 197-204 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Health and Place |
Volume | 11 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sept 2005 |
Keywords
- Awareness
- Genetic Testing
- Guidelines as Topic
- Humans
- Neoplasms
- Primary Health Care
- Referral and Consultation
- Rural Population
- Wales