Assessment of Online Resources for Genetic Counseling and Genetic Testing

There is evidence that states that low genetic literacy directly affects an individual’s ability to find, understand, and use genetic health information. Lack of understating of genetic information has been shown to directly lead to negative health outcomes such as decreased quality of care, increased levels of stress and anxiety, and decreased likelihood to undergo genetic testing or receive other genetic services. The aim of this study was to assess the readability and suitability of multiple online resources individuals might encounter after being referred to genetic counseling, as well as to construct an implementation guide for graphics and interactive components, which provides key insights into ways in which organizations can better frame their genetic information making it more suitable to their target audience. Researchers used the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) Tool to quantify the effectiveness of various pieces of genetic literature at reaching their target audiences. Of the 20 websites that were selected, 15 received an adequate rating, while only 5 received a superior rating. The implication guide focused on areas where websites tended to receive the worst scores (graphics, learning stimulation and motivation, cultural appropriateness.) This study is significant to public health by attempting to improve organizational health literacy, and therefore improve patient and family experience