Implementing pharmacogenetic testing in rural primary care practices: a pilot feasibility study

Pharmacogenomics. 2019 Apr;20(6):433-446. doi: 10.2217/pgs-2018-0200. Epub 2019 Apr 15.

Abstract

Aim: Assess feasibility and perspectives of pharmacogenetic testing/PGx in rural, primary care physician (PCP) practices when PCPs are trained to interpret/apply results and testing costs are covered. Methods: Participants included PCPs who agreed to training, surveys and interviews and eligible patients who agreed to surveys and testing. 51 patients from three practices participated. Results: Prestudy, no PCP had ever ordered a PGx test. Test results demonstrated gene variations in 30% of patients, related to current medications, with PCPs reporting changes to drug management. Poststudy, test cost was still a concern, but now PCPs reported practical barriers, including the utilization of PGx results over time. PCPs and patients had favorable responses to testing. Summary: PGx testing is feasible in rural PCP practices.

Keywords: clinical implementation; personalized medicine; pharmacogenetics; pharmacogenomics; primary care; rural health.

Publication types

  • Observational Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Genetic Testing / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pharmacogenetics / statistics & numerical data*
  • Pharmacogenomic Testing / statistics & numerical data*
  • Physicians, Primary Care / statistics & numerical data*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Primary Health Care / statistics & numerical data*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Surveys and Questionnaires