A collaborative approach to genetic testing: a community hospital's experience.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genetics
• Healthcare Delivery

Background:

• Cancer genetics services have undergone significant transformation over the last decade.
• The provision and personnel involved in cancer genetic services are rapidly changing.
• There is a growing need to adapt service delivery models to meet evolving patient needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the evolution of community-based cancer genetic services.
• To highlight the collaborative approach involving non-genetics providers in offering genetic testing for hereditary cancer.
• To assess the impact of this model on resource utilization and patient access.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of service evolution in a community setting.
• Analysis of collaboration strategies between genetics professionals and non-genetics providers.
• Evaluation of patient outcomes and access to long-term follow-up resources.

Main Results:

• Successful integration of hereditary cancer genetic testing through collaboration with non-genetics providers.
• Optimized utilization of genetic counselors' expertise for complex cases.
• Enhanced patient access to genetic services and long-term follow-up within their community.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative models enhance the delivery of cancer genetic services in community settings.
• Engaging non-genetics providers expands access to genetic testing for hereditary cancer.
• This approach improves patient experience and facilitates ongoing care management.