The Training 40% of Cardiologists Lack

Becker's Hospital Review (07/10/25) Gregerson, Elizabeth

Findings from a recent survey, to be published in JACC Advances, show that 40% of cardiologists lack any training in cardiogenetic testing. The survey, which was conducted in 2024, evaluated cardiologists' perceptions and use of cardiogenetic testing. Overall, 80% of the 161 participants said they have directly ordered or facilitated a referral for cardiogenetic testing; however, only 40% of those individuals said they were confident in their decision and 31% expressed confidence in interpreting the test results. For the participants who said they had never ordered such testing, approximately three-quarters said they had not received instruction about cardiogenetic testing. Barriers to ordering the testing included perceived high cardiogenetic testing costs, limited access to genetic counselors, and lack of confidence in interpreting results. Most participants (91%) expressed interest in receiving additional education about cardiogenetic testing. The findings indicate "that improved access to genetic counselors and professionals, clearer guidelines, and expanded education could boost cardiogenetic testing adoption and integration into cardiovascular care," the study authors conclude.

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