Multiplex genomic testing (MGT): Four-year real-world experience of two community oncology practices in central rural Nebraska.

Abstract

e14728 Background: MGT forms the basis of precision oncology. More and more community oncology practices are utilizing MGT to identify somatic Actionable Alterations (AA) in solid tumors. This information is increasingly being used to choose FDA and/or guideline approved treatment options, or clinical trials. Methods: From July 2014 to July 2018, MGT (Foundation Medicine) data of patients (pts) with solid tumors at two community hospital-based oncology practices in central rural Nebraska were retrospectively analyzed. Study population consisted of advanced solid tumor pts (ECOG 0-2) with an available MGT result who had progressed on standard treatment regimens. Treating community oncologists directed treatment choices based on MGT results. Results: 360 pts underwent MGT. Average (avg) turn-around time from order to reporting was 20.19 days. Reimbursements were through commercial insurance (27 %), Medicare (66%), Medicaid (3%), self-pay (2 %) and financial assistance by company (2%). Most common cancer types were non-small cell lung (27%), pancreas (9%), colon (8%), unknown primary (4%), sarcoma (4%), breast (4%), gastro-esophageal (2%) and kidney (1%). 79% of samples had at least one AA. In 69 (19%) pts these alterations were matched to one or more on/off label FDA and/or guideline approved targeted therapies. Only 26/69 pts (37%) in this group were able to have a therapy that was new. 43 (12%) of pts qualified and went on locally available clinical trials (MATCH, LUNG-MAP and TAPUR). Conclusions: Our analysis reflects a 4-year real-world MGT experience in two community oncology practices in central rural Nebraska. In addition to established barriers of cost, long turnaround time, adequate tissue, the low yield of new FDA and/or guideline approved treatments decreases the utility of MGT. Increased variety and availability of precision medicine clinical trials with improved patient access in the rural setting may improve this shortcoming.[Table: see text]