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Andreoli L, Peeters H, Van Steen K, Dierickx K. Taking the risk. A systematic review of ethical reasons and moral arguments in the clinical use of polygenic risk scores. Am J Med Genet A 2024:e63584. [PMID: 38450933 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Debates about the prospective clinical use of polygenic risk scores (PRS) have grown considerably in the last years. The potential benefits of PRS to improve patient care at individual and population levels have been extensively underlined. Nonetheless, the use of PRS in clinical contexts presents a number of unresolved ethical challenges and consequent normative gaps that hinder their optimal implementation. Here, we conducted a systematic review of reasons of the normative literature discussing ethical issues and moral arguments related to the use of PRS for the prevention and treatment of common complex diseases. In total, we have included and analyzed 34 records, spanning from 2013 to 2023. The findings have been organized in three major themes: in the first theme, we consider the potential harms of PRS to individuals and their kin. In the theme "Threats to health equity," we consider ethical concerns of social relevance, with a focus on justice issues. Finally, the theme "Towards best practices" collects a series of research priorities and provisional recommendations to be considered for an optimal clinical translation of PRS. We conclude that the use of PRS in clinical care reinvigorates old debates in matters of health justice; however, open questions, regarding best practices in clinical counseling, suggest that the ethical considerations applicable in monogenic settings will not be sufficient to face PRS emerging challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Andreoli
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hilde Peeters
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Kris Dierickx
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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2
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Cho MT, Davis C, Lowe C, Flynn M, Jamal L, Bajaj K, Atzinger C, Erby LH. Beyond multiple choice: Clinical simulation as a rigorous and inclusive method for assessing genetic counseling competencies. J Genet Couns 2024; 33:118-123. [PMID: 38351603 PMCID: PMC10922725 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Educational use of clinical simulation is a way for students to immerse themselves within a realistic yet safe and structured environment as they practice clinical skills. It is widely used in healthcare training and evaluation, and there are best practices for design, implementation, debriefing, and assessment. An increasing number of genetic counseling graduate programs use simulation in various ways, ranging from role-plays to working with professional simulated/standardized patient (SP) actors. At this time, there is very little consistency across programs, research on the approaches, and standards by which simulation is incorporated into training. Simulation is an understudied but promising approach for genetic counselor (GC) education and assessment. After graduation, GCs demonstrate their competence as entry-level providers through American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) multiple-choice examination (MCE), along with their participatory clinical encounters from graduate training. Data from genetic counseling and other professions highlight the limitations and biases of MCEs, suggesting they not only fail to accurately capture competency, but also that they disadvantage underrepresented individuals from entering the field. In addition, MCEs are limited as a tool for assessing nuanced counseling and communication skills, as compared to more quantitative scientific knowledge. We propose that innovative, evidence-based approaches such as simulation have the potential to not only enhance learning, but also to allow GCs to better demonstrate competency during training and in relation to the board examination. Collaborative approaches, research, and funding are needed to further explore the viability of routinely incorporating simulation into GC training and assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan T. Cho
- Center for Precision Health Research, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD
- Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD
| | - Claire Davis
- Joan H. Marks Graduate Program in Human Genetics, Sarah Lawrence College, Bronxville NY
| | - Chenery Lowe
- Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD
| | - Maureen Flynn
- Department of Genetic Counseling, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston MA
| | - Leila Jamal
- Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD
- Department of Bioethics, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD
| | - Komal Bajaj
- Office of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi/North Central Bronx, New York NY
| | - Carrie Atzinger
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati & Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati OH
| | - Lori H. Erby
- Center for Precision Health Research, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD
- Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD
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3
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Das A, Behera RN, Kapoor A, Ambatipudi K. The Potential of Meta-Proteomics and Artificial Intelligence to Establish the Next Generation of Probiotics for Personalized Healthcare. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:17528-17542. [PMID: 37955263 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c03834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The symbiosis of probiotic bacteria with humans has rendered various health benefits while providing nutrition and a suitable environment for their survival. However, the probiotics must survive unfavorable gut conditions to exert beneficial effects. The intrinsic resistance of probiotics to survive harsh conditions results from a myriad of proteins. Interaction of microbial proteins with the host is indispensable for modulating the gut microbiome, such as interaction with cell receptors and protective action against pathogens. The complex interplay of proteins should be unraveled by utilizing metaproteomic strategies. The contribution of probiotics to health is now widely accepted. However, due to the inconsistency of generalized probiotics, contemporary research toward precision probiotics has gained momentum for customized treatment. This review explores the application of metaproteomics and AI/ML algorithms in resolving multiomics data analysis and in silico prediction of microbial features for screening specific beneficial probiotic organisms. Implementing these integrative strategies could augment the potential of precision probiotics for personalized healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Das
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Rama N Behera
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Ayushi Kapoor
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Kiran Ambatipudi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
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Chapman CR. Ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic risk prediction for multifactorial disease: a narrative review identifying concerns about interpretation and use of polygenic scores. J Community Genet 2023; 14:441-452. [PMID: 36529843 PMCID: PMC10576696 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-022-00625-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in genomics have enabled the development of polygenic scores (PGS), sometimes called polygenic risk scores, in the context of multifactorial diseases and disorders such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and schizophrenia. PGS estimate an individual's genetic predisposition, as compared to other members of a population, for conditions which are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. There is significant interest in using genetic risk prediction afforded through PGS in public health, clinical care, and research settings, yet many acknowledge the need to thoughtfully consider and address ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI). To contribute to this effort, this paper reports on a narrative review of the literature, with the aim of identifying and categorizing ELSI relating to genetic risk prediction in the context of multifactorial disease, which have been raised by scholars in the field. Ninety-two articles, spanning from 1977 to 2021, met the inclusion criteria for this study. Identified ELSI included potential benefits, challenges and risks that focused on concerns about interpretation and use, and ethical obligations to maximize benefits, minimize risks, promote justice, and support autonomy. This research will support geneticists, clinicians, genetic counselors, patients, patient advocates, and policymakers in recognizing and addressing ethical concerns associated with PGS; it will also guide future empirical and normative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Riley Chapman
- Department of Population Health (Division of Medical Ethics), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Center for Human Genetics and Genomics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Science Building, 435 E. 30th St, 8th Floor, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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5
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Park JK, Lu CY. Polygenic Scores in the Direct-to-Consumer Setting: Challenges and Opportunities for a New Era in Consumer Genetic Testing. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13040573. [PMID: 37108959 PMCID: PMC10144199 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13040573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests have generated considerable scholarly attention and public intrigue. Although the current consumer genetic testing regime relies on the reporting of individual variants of interest to consumers, there has recently been interest in the possibility of integrating polygenic scores (PGS), which aggregate genetic liability for disease across the entire genome. While PGS have thus far been extensively explored as clinical and public health tools, the use of PGS in consumer genetic testing has not yet received systematic attention, even though they are already in use for some consumer genetic tests. In this narrative review, we highlight the ethical, legal, and social implications of the use of PGS in DTC genetic tests and synthesize existing solutions to these concerns. We organize these concerns into three domains: (1) industry variation; (2) privacy and commercialization; and (3) patient safety and risk. While previously expressed concerns in these domains will remain relevant, the emergence of PGS-based DTC genetic tests raises challenges that will require novel approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin K Park
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christine Y Lu
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW 2077, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Hospital-based ovarian cancer patient traceback program results in minimal genetic testing uptake. Gynecol Oncol 2022; 164:615-621. [PMID: 34998598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2021.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the feasibility of hospital-based genetic counseling and testing (GC/T) Traceback for Ovarian Cancer (OC) patients, as proposed by the Division of Cancer Prevention and the Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute. METHODS Living patients with OC were sent a letter explaining the availability of guideline-supported GC/T for at least BRCA1/2 and surrogates of deceased patients were called on the telephone. Outcomes of contact attempts were systematically recorded and statistically described. RESULTS 598 Traceback-eligible OC patients diagnosed from 2006 to 2016 were identified (163 presumed-living and 435 deceased). Two living patients called our office and scheduled an appointment for GC/T after receiving a letter. For surrogates of prior patients, successful contact occurred in 25% of call attempts. Fourteen individuals (2 living patients and 12 surrogates) underwent genetic counseling. Of those 14, 10 individuals consented to genetic testing and 5 followed through with sample collection. None of these individuals had pathogenic variants (PVs). When surrogate call notes were reviewed, 58% reflected positive responses to contact, however 42% were noted to have negative or indifferent responses, which were most common among spouses. Total time spent for hospital-based Traceback was 109 h. CONCLUSIONS Overall, hospital-based Traceback via letter and telephone contact of surrogates is time-intensive and results in minimal uptake of GC/T. To practically execute this type of outreach program, health systems should consider collection of alternative contact information to allow for electronic communication of patient surrogates. Our study also underscores the importance of timely GC/T while patients are in active cancer care.
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Chavez-Yenter D, Kimball KE, Kohlmann W, Lorenz Chambers R, Bradshaw RL, Espinel WF, Flynn M, Gammon A, Goldberg E, Hagerty KJ, Hess R, Kessler C, Monahan R, Temares D, Tobik K, Mann DM, Kawamoto K, Del Fiol G, Buys SS, Ginsburg O, Kaphingst KA. Patient Interactions With an Automated Conversational Agent Delivering Pretest Genetics Education: Descriptive Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e29447. [PMID: 34792472 PMCID: PMC8663668 DOI: 10.2196/29447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer genetic testing to assess an individual’s cancer risk and to enable genomics-informed cancer treatment has grown exponentially in the past decade. Because of this continued growth and a shortage of health care workers, there is a need for automated strategies that provide high-quality genetics services to patients to reduce the clinical demand for genetics providers. Conversational agents have shown promise in managing mental health, pain, and other chronic conditions and are increasingly being used in cancer genetic services. However, research on how patients interact with these agents to satisfy their information needs is limited. Objective Our primary aim is to assess user interactions with a conversational agent for pretest genetics education. Methods We conducted a feasibility study of user interactions with a conversational agent who delivers pretest genetics education to primary care patients without cancer who are eligible for cancer genetic evaluation. The conversational agent provided scripted content similar to that delivered in a pretest genetic counseling visit for cancer genetic testing. Outside of a core set of information delivered to all patients, users were able to navigate within the chat to request additional content in their areas of interest. An artificial intelligence–based preprogrammed library was also established to allow users to ask open-ended questions to the conversational agent. Transcripts of the interactions were recorded. Here, we describe the information selected, time spent to complete the chat, and use of the open-ended question feature. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative measures, and thematic analyses were used for qualitative responses. Results We invited 103 patients to participate, of which 88.3% (91/103) were offered access to the conversational agent, 39% (36/91) started the chat, and 32% (30/91) completed the chat. Most users who completed the chat indicated that they wanted to continue with genetic testing (21/30, 70%), few were unsure (9/30, 30%), and no patient declined to move forward with testing. Those who decided to test spent an average of 10 (SD 2.57) minutes on the chat, selected an average of 1.87 (SD 1.2) additional pieces of information, and generally did not ask open-ended questions. Those who were unsure spent 4 more minutes on average (mean 14.1, SD 7.41; P=.03) on the chat, selected an average of 3.67 (SD 2.9) additional pieces of information, and asked at least one open-ended question. Conclusions The pretest chat provided enough information for most patients to decide on cancer genetic testing, as indicated by the small number of open-ended questions. A subset of participants were still unsure about receiving genetic testing and may require additional education or interpersonal support before making a testing decision. Conversational agents have the potential to become a scalable alternative for pretest genetics education, reducing the clinical demand on genetics providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Chavez-Yenter
- Department of Communication, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Kadyn E Kimball
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Wendy Kohlmann
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | | | - Richard L Bradshaw
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Whitney F Espinel
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Michael Flynn
- University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Amanda Gammon
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Eric Goldberg
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kelsi J Hagerty
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Rachel Hess
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Cecilia Kessler
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Rachel Monahan
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Danielle Temares
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Katie Tobik
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Devin M Mann
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kensaku Kawamoto
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Guilherme Del Fiol
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Saundra S Buys
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Ophira Ginsburg
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kimberly A Kaphingst
- Department of Communication, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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Kaphingst KA, Kohlmann W, Chambers RL, Goodman MS, Bradshaw R, Chan PA, Chavez-Yenter D, Colonna SV, Espinel WF, Everett JN, Gammon A, Goldberg ER, Gonzalez J, Hagerty KJ, Hess R, Kehoe K, Kessler C, Kimball KE, Loomis S, Martinez TR, Monahan R, Schiffman JD, Temares D, Tobik K, Wetter DW, Mann DM, Kawamoto K, Del Fiol G, Buys SS, Ginsburg O. Comparing models of delivery for cancer genetics services among patients receiving primary care who meet criteria for genetic evaluation in two healthcare systems: BRIDGE randomized controlled trial. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:542. [PMID: 34078380 PMCID: PMC8170651 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06489-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advances in genetics and sequencing technologies are enabling the identification of more individuals with inherited cancer susceptibility who could benefit from tailored screening and prevention recommendations. While cancer family history information is used in primary care settings to identify unaffected patients who could benefit from a cancer genetics evaluation, this information is underutilized. System-level population health management strategies are needed to assist health care systems in identifying patients who may benefit from genetic services. In addition, because of the limited number of trained genetics specialists and increasing patient volume, the development of innovative and sustainable approaches to delivering cancer genetic services is essential. METHODS We are conducting a randomized controlled trial, entitled Broadening the Reach, Impact, and Delivery of Genetic Services (BRIDGE), to address these needs. The trial is comparing uptake of genetic counseling, uptake of genetic testing, and patient adherence to management recommendations for automated, patient-directed versus enhanced standard of care cancer genetics services delivery models. An algorithm-based system that utilizes structured cancer family history data available in the electronic health record (EHR) is used to identify unaffected patients who receive primary care at the study sites and meet current guidelines for cancer genetic testing. We are enrolling eligible patients at two healthcare systems (University of Utah Health and New York University Langone Health) through outreach to a randomly selected sample of 2780 eligible patients in the two sites, with 1:1 randomization to the genetic services delivery arms within sites. Study outcomes are assessed through genetics clinic records, EHR, and two follow-up questionnaires at 4 weeks and 12 months after last genetic counseling contactpre-test genetic counseling. DISCUSSION BRIDGE is being conducted in two healthcare systems with different clinical structures and patient populations. Innovative aspects of the trial include a randomized comparison of a chatbot-based genetic services delivery model to standard of care, as well as identification of at-risk individuals through a sustainable EHR-based system. The findings from the BRIDGE trial will advance the state of the science in identification of unaffected patients with inherited cancer susceptibility and delivery of genetic services to those patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION BRIDGE is registered as NCT03985852 . The trial was registered on June 6, 2019 at clinicaltrials.gov .
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Kaphingst
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
- Department of Communication, University of Utah, 255 S. Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
| | - Wendy Kohlmann
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | | | - Melody S Goodman
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, 726 Broadway, New York, NY, 10012, USA
| | - Richard Bradshaw
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 140, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Priscilla A Chan
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, 160 E. 34th Street, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Daniel Chavez-Yenter
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
- Department of Communication, University of Utah, 255 S. Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Sarah V Colonna
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
- Veterans Administration Medical Center, 500 S. Foothill Boulevard, Salt Lake City, UT, 84149, USA
| | - Whitney F Espinel
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Jessica N Everett
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, 160 E. 34th Street, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Amanda Gammon
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Eric R Goldberg
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Javier Gonzalez
- Medical Center Information Technology, NYU Langone Health, 360 Park Avenue South, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Kelsi J Hagerty
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Rachel Hess
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Kelsey Kehoe
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Cecilia Kessler
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Kadyn E Kimball
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Shane Loomis
- NYU Langone Health, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Boost Services, Epic Systems Corporation, 1979 Milky Way, Verona, WI, 53593, USA
| | - Tiffany R Martinez
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Rachel Monahan
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, 160 E. 34th Street, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Joshua D Schiffman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Dani Temares
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, 160 E. 34th Street, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Katie Tobik
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - David W Wetter
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Devin M Mann
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Kensaku Kawamoto
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 140, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Guilherme Del Fiol
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 140, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Saundra S Buys
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, 30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Ophira Ginsburg
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, 160 E. 34th Street, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
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Dragojlovic N, Kopac N, Borle K, Tandun R, Salmasi S, Ellis U, Birch P, Adam S, Friedman JM, Elliott AM, Lynd LD. Utilization and uptake of clinical genetics services in high-income countries: A scoping review. Health Policy 2021; 125:877-887. [PMID: 33962789 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ongoing rapid growth in the need for genetic services has the potential to severely strain the capacity of the clinical genetics workforce to deliver this care. Unfortunately, assessments of the scale of this health policy challenge and potential solutions are hampered by the lack of a consolidated evidence base on the growth in genetic service utilization. To enable health policy research and strategic planning by health systems in this area, we conducted a scoping review of the literature on the utilization and uptake of clinical genetics services in high-income countries published between 2010 and 2018. One-hundred-and-ninety-five unique studies were included in the review. Most focused on cancer (85/195; 44%) and prenatal care (50/195; 26%), which are consistently the two areas with the greatest volume of genetic service utilization in both the United States and other high-income countries. Utilization and uptake rates varied considerably and were influenced by contextual factors including health system characteristics, provider knowledge, and patient preferences. Moreover, growth in genetic service utilization appears to be driven to a significant degree by technological advances and the integration of new tests into clinical care. Our review highlights both the policy challenge posed by the rapid growth in the utilization of genetic services and the variability in this trend across clinical indications and health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Dragojlovic
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nicola Kopac
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Kennedy Borle
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Rachel Tandun
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Shahrzad Salmasi
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ursula Ellis
- Woodward Library, University of British Columbia, 2198 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Patricia Birch
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, C201 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Shelin Adam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, C201 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Jan M Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, C201 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | | | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, C201 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada; BC Women's Hospital Research Institute, H214 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Larry D Lynd
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, Providence Health Research Institute, 588-1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6.
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Snir M, Nazareth S, Simmons E, Hayward L, Ashcraft K, Bristow SL, Esplin ED, Aradhya S. Democratizing genomics: Leveraging software to make genetics an integral part of routine care. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 187:14-27. [PMID: 33296144 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Genetic testing can provide definitive molecular diagnoses and guide clinical management decisions from preconception through adulthood. Innovative solutions for scaling clinical genomics services are necessary if they are to transition from a niche specialty to a routine part of patient care. The expertise of specialists, like genetic counselors and medical geneticists, has traditionally been relied upon to facilitate testing and follow-up, and while ideal, this approach is limited in its ability to integrate genetics into primary care. As individuals, payors, and providers increasingly realize the value of genetics in mainstream medicine, several implementation challenges need to be overcome. These include electronic health record integration, patient and provider education, tools to stay abreast of guidelines, and simplification of the test ordering process. Currently, no single platform offers a holistic view of genetic testing that streamlines the entire process across specialties that begins with identifying at-risk patients in mainstream care settings, providing pretest education, facilitating consent and test ordering, and following up as a "genetic companion" for ongoing management. We describe our vision for using software that includes clinical-grade chatbots and decision support tools, with direct access to genetic counselors and pharmacists within a modular, integrated, end-to-end testing journey.
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12
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Cho MT, Guy C. Evolving Roles of Genetic Counselors in the Clinical Laboratory. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a036574. [PMID: 31570375 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genetic counselors (GCs) possess several core competencies that provide direct benefit in the clinical laboratory setting. Communication with clients about complex information such as test methodology or results and the skills of facilitation and translation of complex information were recognized as important skills early in the establishment of GCs in laboratories. The clinical expertise of GCs serves as the background and experience from which they facilitate complex laboratory cases. Early roles for GCs in the laboratory also included result reporting, case management, and test development. The scope of roles has broadened to include management, business development, education, telemedicine, research, and variant interpretation. With increasing value being placed on genetic counseling skills both in and outside of a clinical laboratory, the roles and positions of GCs will likely continue to expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan T Cho
- National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20894, USA
| | - Carrie Guy
- Quest Diagnostics, Secaucus, New Jersey 07094, USA
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13
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Dragojlovic N, Borle K, Kopac N, Ellis U, Birch P, Adam S, Friedman JM, Nisselle A, Elliott AM, Lynd LD. The composition and capacity of the clinical genetics workforce in high-income countries: a scoping review. Genet Med 2020; 22:1437-1449. [PMID: 32576987 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-020-0825-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As genetics becomes increasingly integrated into all areas of health care and the use of complex genetic tests continues to grow, the clinical genetics workforce will likely face greatly increased demand for its services. To inform strategic planning by health-care systems to prepare to meet this future demand, we performed a scoping review of the genetics workforce in high-income countries, summarizing all available evidence on its composition and capacity published between 2010 and 2019. Five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PAIS, CINAHL, and Web of Science) and gray literature sources were searched, resulting in 162 unique studies being included in the review. The evidence presented includes the composition and size of the workforce, the scope of practice for genetics and nongenetics specialists, the time required to perform genetics-related tasks, case loads of genetics providers, and opportunities to increase efficiency and capacity. Our results indicate that there is currently a shortage of genetics providers and that there is a lack of consensus about the appropriate boundaries between the scopes of practice for genetics and nongenetics providers. Moreover, the results point to strategies that may be used to increase productivity and efficiency, including alternative service delivery models, streamlining processes, and the automation of tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Dragojlovic
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kennedy Borle
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nicola Kopac
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ursula Ellis
- Woodward Library, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Patricia Birch
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shelin Adam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jan M Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Amy Nisselle
- Australian Genomics Health Alliance, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Women's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Larry D Lynd
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, Providence Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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A Review of the Emergence and Expansion of Cardiovascular Genetic Counseling. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-019-0631-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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