Ochsner Health – New Orleans is one of the first hospitals in the nation to standardize genomic testing for cancer drugs to better treat cancer patients. Ochsner Health System Director of Clinical Pharmacy Services, Catherine Oliver says genomic testing helps to identify a person’s DNA and how the changes in a person’s DNA impact how they respond to medication.
“By having this information before you start medication, we can get you your therapeutic benefits with limited to no side effects from that medication,” said Oliver.
Pharmacogenomics testing guides doctors on how patients metabolize certain drugs and warns of possible side effects so they may adjust dosage in a way that provides personalized treatments. Oliver says the process evaluates the function of nearly 30 genes its preventing hospitalization and saving lives.
“If we learn your body can’t metabolize them, then we give you a lower dose. We are able to avoid severe and sometimes fatal side effects by decreasing that dosage,” said Oliver.
Ochsner launched a pharmacogenomics program that is available to all patients in March 2022. The systems testing partner, OneOme, is working with insurance companies to make testing affordable. Oliver says providers can have results in about five days and costs are determined by health benefits.
“We have a really great relationship with the lab companies that we use and we’re able to get it covered for most patients at a minimal cost,” said Oliver.
Pharmacogenomic testing is only needed once during a lifetime for most patients and is reflected in the patient’s record in a way that it is accessible now or in the future.
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