Implementing pharmacogenetic testing in rural primary care practices: a pilot feasibility study.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Genetics
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Pharmacogenetic testing (PGx) can optimize drug therapy but its implementation in rural primary care is understudied.
• Physician training and cost coverage are potential facilitators for PGx adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and perspectives of implementing PGx testing in rural primary care physician (PCP) practices.
• To evaluate PCP and patient responses to PGx testing when PCPs receive training and testing costs are covered.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study involving PCPs and patients in three rural primary care practices.
• PCPs received training on interpreting and applying PGx results.
• Patient surveys and interviews were conducted alongside PGx testing.

Main Results:

• No PCPs had previously ordered PGx tests; 30% of patients had gene variations impacting current medications.
• PCPs reported changes in drug management based on PGx results.
• Post-study, while cost remained a concern, practical barriers like long-term utilization emerged; both PCPs and patients responded favorably.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacogenetic testing is feasible in rural primary care settings.
• Physician training and cost coverage can facilitate PGx implementation, despite practical challenges.
• PGx testing shows promise for improving patient care in underserved rural areas.