Genetic Counsellors' Preferences for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis: A Discrete Choice Experiment

Abstract

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a way of testing for a genetically affected embryo. Provincial PGD coverage differences along with ambiguity around scope of testing and patient inclusion criteria create a lack of clarity for public coverage options. A discrete choice experiment was undertaken with Canadian genetic counsellors (GC) to quantify their stated preferences for public PGD coverage, considering the following attributes: PGD indication, risk of the condition, fertility status, family history and number of cycles covered. The completed response rate was 41% with 126 GC completing the survey. Multinomial logit regression was used to estimate part-worth utilities. Key demographic and practice characteristics were considered as preference influences. Risk of the condition was the most important attribute. Overall, GC preferred scope of testing criteria over patient inclusion criteria. This is the first study to quantify GC preferences for PGD coverage and provides insight to help promote discussion about PGD policy.