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Sharing Genomic Tumor Sequencing Results With Patients: Experiences of Advanced Practice Oncology Providers
Lisa Stewart1, Anne Floyd Koci1, Tracy Brock Lowe1
1From Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina.
Background:
Patients with cancer routinely undergo genomic tumor sequencing, a component of molecular profiling (MP), to better characterize their cancer and identify potential targetable alterations. Targeted treatments potentially confer higher response rates and better efficacy. With increasing complexity, patients may require detailed explanations of MP results. Patient understanding of MP results increases the likelihood that eligible patients receive targeted treatment. Advanced practice providers (APPs), defined as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and pharmacists, frequently review and discuss MP results with patients. Purpose: The aim of this study is to understand APP experiences discussing MP results with adult cancer patients.
Methods:
A qualitative study was conducted through virtual semi-structured interviews with APPs recruited via study invitation shared through the Advanced Practitioner Society for Hematology and Oncology (APSHO). Eligibility criteria included APPs with > 1 year of oncology experience and involvement in discussing MP results. Data were analyzed utilizing a constant comparative analysis and coded in three stages: open, axial, and selective.
Results:
Thirteen participants were enrolled from across the United States. Participants discussed learning to understand and explain MP findings primarily through on-the-job experiences. Barriers to patient education were also described. Initially coded participant statements (open codes) produced six themes (axial codes).
Conclusions:
With MP now standard practice in oncology, APPs frequently discuss these results with patients. This study highlights that additional and continuing education related to MP is needed in communicating complex results. Patient educational tools, specific to patients' MP findings and tailored to their preferences and literacy levels, are critically needed.
Insights
Advanced practice providers (APPs) need more education to explain complex molecular profiling (MP) results to cancer patients. Tailored patient education tools are crucial for improving understanding and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomic Medicine
- Patient Education
Background:
- Genomic tumor sequencing, or molecular profiling (MP), is standard in oncology for identifying targetable alterations.
- Understanding MP results is crucial for patients to receive targeted cancer treatments.
- Advanced practice providers (APPs) frequently discuss MP results with patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of APPs in discussing molecular profiling results with adult cancer patients.
- To identify challenges and needs in communicating complex genomic information.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative study using virtual semi-structured interviews with APPs.
- Participants were recruited through the Advanced Practitioner Society for Hematology and Oncology (APSHO).
- Data analysis involved constant comparative analysis with open, axial, and selective coding.
Main Results:
- Thirteen APPs participated in the study.
- APPs primarily learned to interpret and explain MP findings through on-the-job experience.
- Barriers to effective patient education regarding MP results were identified.
Conclusions:
- APPs require additional and ongoing education for effectively communicating complex MP results.
- There is a critical need for patient educational tools tailored to MP findings, patient preferences, and literacy levels.
- Improved communication of MP results can enhance patient understanding and facilitate targeted treatment selection.
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