Assessment of the current status of real-world pharmacogenomic testing: informed consent, patient education, and related practices

Assessment of the current status of real-world pharmacogenomic testing: informed consent, patient education, and related practices
Original Research
Lucas Pereira, Cyrine-Eliana Haidar, Susanne B. Haga, Anna G. Cisler, April Hall, Sanjay K. Shukla, Scott J. Hebbring,
Emili J. W. Leary
Frontiers in Pharmacology, 8 February 2024
Abstract
Introduction
The practice of informed consent (IC) for pharmacogenomic testing in clinical settings varies, and there is currently no consensus on which elements of IC to provide to patients. This study aims to assess current IC practices for pharmacogenomic testing.
Methods
An online survey was developed and sent to health providers at institutions that offer clinical germline pharmacogenomic testing to assess current IC practices.
Results
Forty-six completed surveys representing 43 clinical institutions offering pharmacogenomic testing were received. Thirty-two (74%) respondents obtain IC from patients with variability in elements incorporated. Results revealed that twenty-nine (67%) institutions discuss the benefits, description, and purpose of pharmacogenomic testing with patients. Less commonly discussed elements included methodology and accuracy of testing, and laboratory storage of samples.
Discussion
IC practices varied widely among survey respondents. Most respondents desire the establishment of consensus IC recommendations from a trusted pharmacogenomics organization to help address these disparities.