Perspectives of United States neonatologists on genetic testing practices

Purpose: Genetic disorders often present in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and detecting or confirming these diagnoses has been shown to impact care. However, the availability and use of genetic testing, particularly exome or genome sequencing, among NICUs varies widely. We therefore sought to investigate practice patterns related to genetic testing in NICUs around the country to identify and quantify potential discrepancies. Methods: We designed a survey that was distributed to neonatologists via email. The survey contained questions related to test availability and desirability, the process of test ordering in NICU, and general comfort with ordering and interpreting genetic testing. Demographic data related to the survey participants and characteristics of their NICU were also obtained. Results: In total, 162 neonatologists completed the survey, representing 40 states and 112 distinct NICUs. Although nearly all (93.2%) neonatologists attributed a high level of importance to identifying a genetic diagnosis for their patients, genetic consultations were only available at 78% of NICUs and exome or genome sequencing was not available on a regular basis (69% of NICUs). Conclusion: Although, among US neonatologists surveyed, most feel that genetic tests are indicated for their patients, these are not always clinically available. Further research into implementation barriers is warranted. (C) 2022 American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A survey of neonatologists across the United States revealed that while most acknowledge the importance of genetic testing for their patients, availability of genetic consultations and exome or genome sequencing in NICUs is not always adequate.