Abstract
The BRCA genetic testing process presents patients with a risk of breast or ovarian cancer, a need to disclose sensitive information to family members and a choice of prophylactic surgery or frequent surveillance as a prevention method. This study is a qualitative study, based on grounded theory and systems theory that depicts medical professionals' view of the psychological and social needs of BRCA positive women. A total of 10 participants (physicians, nurse practitioners and genetic counselors) were interviewed and five themes emerged: 1) fragmentation in care, 2) the frontloading of information, 3) a multiplicity of expectations for genetic counselors, 4) the importance of seeing all patients as individuals, and 5) the family system as a source of support and stress. The data suggests a need for a model of support, which encompasses a biopsychosocial and systems theory approach, such as the use of a medical social worker.