'The edge effect': an exploratory study of some factors affecting referrals to cancer genetic services in rural Wales

Rachel Iredale, Lesley Jones, Jonathon Gray, Jenny Deaville

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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 languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)197-204
Number of pages8
JournalHealth and Place
Volume11
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2005

Keywords

  • Awareness
  • Genetic Testing
  • Guidelines as Topic
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms
  • Primary Health Care
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Rural Population
  • Wales

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