Qualitative user evaluation of a revised pharmacogenetic educational toolkit

Abstract

Rachel Mills, Susanne B Haga Duke Center for Applied Genomics and Precision Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA Introduction: Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing is a leading application for personalized and precision medicine; however, there are barriers, including limited provider and patient understanding, which affect its uptake. There is a need for tools that can enhance the patient and provider experience with testing and promoting the shared and informed decision-making. Materials and methods: In this study, we sought to gather additional feedback on a PGx toolkit comprised of four educational tools that had been previously evaluated through an online survey by pharmacists. Specifically, we conducted semi-structured interviews with pharmacists and members of the public regarding their understanding and utility of the toolkit and its individual components. Results: Participants found three of the four toolkit components, a test information sheet, flipbook, and results sheet, to be useful and important. The fourth component, results card, was viewed less favorably. Participants differed in their preference for medical jargon and detailed results nomenclature (namely star * alleles). Conclusion: User input during the development of educational materials is essential for optimizing utilization, effectiveness, and comprehension. Keywords: pharmacogenetic testing, pharmacogenomics, patient education, community pharmacist

Keywords

• pharmacogenomics
• pharmacogenetic testing
• educational tools
• patient education
• pharmacist interviews