Assessing pharmacists’ opinions on the use of pharmacogenomic testing

Abstract

Specific Aims: To describe pharmacist opinions regarding when pharmacogenomic testing should be implemented to optimize drug therapy and assess whether their opinions differ based on their practice setting. Subjects: Currently practicing pharmacists with valid e-mail addresses within the selected listservs. Methods: An online questionnaire was sent out via email to describe how pharmacists view the use of pharmacogenomic testing, what point in drug therapy they think its use is most beneficial, perceived barriers to implementing pharmacogenomics and familiarity with the subject. General demographics including sex, years spent practicing, practice setting, and type of degree held were also collected. Main Results: The survey was completed online by 35 licensed and actively practicing pharmacists. The subjects consisted of 17 females and 18 males; 40% of the total group are between the ages of 25 to 35. 66% of the subjects have been practicing for < 10 years. When comparing 16 inpatient pharmacists with 19 outpatient pharmacist respondents, there was no statistically significant difference in opinion regarding when pharmacogenomic testing should be implemented (p= 0.35). Conclusions: The prevailing opinion among pharmacists was that the best time to implement pharmacogenomic testing is before a patient starts any initial therapy and there is not a significant difference of opinion on the matter between outpatient and inpatient pharmacists.