Physicians’ Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Point-of-Care Pharmacogenetic Testing: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction Pharmacogenetic testing (PGx) is a diagnostic technique used by physicians to determine the possible reactions of patients to drug treatment on the basis of their genetic makeup. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of physicians’ awareness, attitudes, and sociodemographics on the adoption of point-of-care (POC) PGx testing as a diagnostic method, as well as the impact of their knowledge, attitudes, and sociodemographics on its adoption. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 200 physicians and medical trainees working at the Clinics of King Abdullah University Hospital in Jordan was performed. Data on sociodemographics, knowledge and attitudes concerning PGx testing, genetic information sources, and barriers to POC-PGx testing adoption were gathered. Results Participants’ perceived knowledge of the role of PGx testing in therapeutic decision-making was rated as “Excellent” (1.9%), “Very Good” (19.4%), “Good” (34.4%), “Fair” (32.5%), and “Poor” (11.9%). Physicians’ actual knowledge of PGx testing was adequate (mean=3.56 out of 7, SD=1.2), but their attitudes were generally favorable (mean=3.64 out of 5.00, SD=0.52). According to Rogers’ theory, many variables (eg, perceived need, relative advantage, compatibility) had a significant impact on physicians’ willingness to endorse POC-PGx testing. Discussion The majority of physicians stated that they were unaware of PGx testing. Physicians’ perceived knowledge of POC-PGx testing, however, was higher than those who participated in other studies. Participants were optimistic about the future benefits of PGx testing in prescribing effective medications and reducing potential side effects, which were consistent with previous studies. Physicians’ willingness to accept and implement POC-PGx testing was hampered by a lack of PGx expertise, as well as concerns about patient confidentiality, employability, and insurability. More training and genetic courses are needed, according to the majority of participants.

Healthcare professionals' and consumers' knowledge, attitudes, perspectives, and education needs in oncology pharmacogenomics: A systematic review

“…It is possible that the findings may not be generalizable to all HCPs and consumers in oncology as there is evidence that differences exist in the knowledge and practices across different subspecialities, professions, and work settings. 26,29,35 In line with previous studies in noncancer-specific settings, 15,[43][44][45] the results of this systematic review reinforce the notion that utility of PGx testing in oncology is perceived positively by both HCPs and patients. Costs and lack of insurance coverage were found to be the main barriers in adoption of PGx testing in oncology.…”

Mental Health Prescribers’ Perceptions on the Use of Pharmacogenetic Testing in the Management of Depression in the Middle East and North Africa Region

“…For example, barriers were in relation to fitting time during practice to discuss test results with patients, and misinterpretation of the data under the color-coded categories that are used in the tests reports. 24 , 31 There is a possibility that these barriers were not addressed in the present study as the majority of participants did not have actual encounters with tests reports, and therefore lacked knowledge on whether data interpretation would be challenging or time consuming.…”

“…To our knowledge, there are few country-specific studies from the Middle East that assessed perceptions and beliefs of HCPs and students towards PGx in general. [28][29][30][31] However, for the most part, these studies were conducted in single countries, or included participants who were not directly involved in prescribing medications to treat mental health conditions. Therefore, this study adds value to the literature as it explores the readiness of the current health systems within the MENA region to practice precision medicine, especially in mental health.…”

“…This financial barrier was also highlighted in other studies from different geographical regions across the world, indicating that it is not unique to the MENA region. 31,[50][51][52] Despite the high cost of these interventions, cost effective analyses have shown that PGx-guided treatment represents a cost saving option. [53][54][55] Furthermore, the application of genetically-guided treatment in psychiatric outpatient settings in the U.S resulted in reduced healthcare costs over a 4-month follow up period.…”

“…27 Only a few studies with this scope were conducted in the MENA region. [28][29][30][31] These studies were based on single countries only and no study attempted to gain insight into all countries within the region. Additionally, the studies available were conducted in settings other than psychiatry.…”