Patient perspectives of a multidisciplinary Pharmacogenomics clinic.

Abstract

Aim: To assess patient perspectives following evaluation in a multidisciplinary pharmacogenomics clinic run by a clinical pharmacist, genetic counselor, and physician.

Methods: A survey was distributed to 187 adults seen in the Brigham and Women's Hospital Pharmacogenomics Clinic. Participants who completed the survey were invited to complete a semi-structured interview. Interview subjects were selected based on order of responses, scheduling availability, and range of participant experiences with testing and the clinic process. Surveys were analyzed with descriptive statistics, and interview transcripts were analyzed with thematic analysis.

Results: Forty-two survey responses were received; 13 participants were interviewed. Quantitative data demonstrated high satisfaction with the multidisciplinary clinic model and belief that pharmacogenomic testing has value. Qualitative analysis identified four themes: 1) Self-Advocacy as a Patient Responsibility in the Utilization of Pharmacogenomic Results, 2) High Satisfaction with Multidisciplinary Pharmacogenomics Clinic Model and Team, 3) Utility of Pharmacogenomics, and 4) Desire for Pharmacogenomics Resources.

Conclusion: Patients value the care provided by a multidisciplinary pharmacogenomics clinic team, but they need to advocate for the use of their results with other healthcare professionals.