Implementation of a quality improvement project for universal genetic testing in women with ovarian cancer

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends all women with ovarian cancer be offered genetic testing. Despite a decade of endorsement, many oncology practitioners have yet to make this a part of routine practice. Referral to genetic counseling and completion of genetic testing among patients at substantial risk of germline mutations are significantly lacking, adversely affecting patient care and squandering an opportunity to maximize cancer prevention efforts. This project determined the impact and feasibility of implementing a basic model for universal referral to genetic counseling and completion of genetic testing in women with a diagnosis of ovarian cancer in an academic gynecology oncology practice with access to electronic health records (EHRs).

Patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer from January 2008 to November 2013 were retrospectively reviewed to determine the baseline referral rate for genetic counseling and testing completion in our practice. Implementation of a process change model combining provider training, patient education, enhanced electronic health record documentation and improved patient appointment scheduling strategies were implemented. We then prospectively collected data on all newly diagnosed ovarian cancer patients that had not already undergone genetic testing presenting from December 1, 2013 to November 30, 2016.

Genetic referral rates, genetic counseling and testing completion rates were markedly improved. Pre-implementation our genetic testing rate was 27% and post implementation our testing rate was 82% (p-value≤0.001).

Low cost interventions that target education of both providers and patients regarding the importance of genetic testing along with utilization of the EHR and streamlined patient appointment services can significantly increase rates of genetic testing completion.