Implementation of an Embedded In-Clinic Genetic Testing Station to Optimize Germline Testing for Patients with Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

• DOI: 10.1002/onco.13968
• Publication Date: 2021-09-10T18:16:05Z
• Authors: Evan J. Walker; Dena Goldberg; Kelly M. Gordon; Christina Pedley; Julia Carnevale; Pelin Cinar; Eric A. Collisson; Margaret A. Tempero; Andrew H. Ko; Amie M. Blanco; Mallika Dhawan
• Keywords: Pancreatic Neoplasms; 03 medical and health sciences; Germ Cells; 0302 clinical medicine; Humans; Genetic Testing; Adenocarcinoma; Retrospective Studies; 3. Good health

Abstract Background Germline genetic testing is universally recommended for patients with pancreatic cancer, but remains infrequent. In May 2018, we implemented a systematic patient intake workflow featuring an in-clinic station (GTS) at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) to expedite counseling and facilitate sample collection. We sought determine impact this innovation on rates testing. Methods Medical records, test reports were retrospectively reviewed new cancer eligible germline UCSF from 2018 2019. Primary outcomes included rate offered confirmed Data compared periods before after GTS implementation. Associations between demographic characteristics assessed. Results Genetic counseling/testing was 209 (94%) 223 patients, 158 (71%) completed (135 UCSF, 23 elsewhere). Compared traditional referral-based model, increased 19% 71%, attrition referral genetics appointment decreased 36% 3%, pathogenic variant detection 20% 33%. Patients who younger, identified as non-Hispanic White, spoke English primary language more likely complete Conclusions Implementation resulted in highest reported real-world cancer. Health care disparities will guide future innovation. This report provides model other centers create similar infrastructure. Implications Practice study demonstrates that associated improve delivery completion achieved, authors’ knowledge, population. article describes detail replication medical guideline-concordant infrastructure can also be applied cancers which recommended.