Patient preferences of decision-making in the context of genetic testing for breast cancer risk

Purpose: We conducted a study on women's preferred physician involvement in the decision to obtain genetic testing for breast cancer risk. Methods: Women from a primary care physician network completed a telephone survey and a written baseline questionnaire. Results: The majority preferred to make up their own minds. Predictors of leaving the decision to providers were less education, less knowledge, and higher external health locus of control. Trust in one's physician mediated the effect of health locus of control on decision method. Conclusion: Physicians will face requests from low-risk women and will need effective communication skills to inform women about the test.