When it comes to genetic testing, a general concern expressed by healthcare providers is the initial financial outlay of the patients since most genetic tests are not currently covered by medical aids. However, it is important to consider the benefits and cost effectiveness downstream.
Pharmacogenomics is the study of the role of the genome in medication response. This test is particularly valuable to patients who are on polypharmacy, are treatment resistant, or are prone to adverse drug reactions (ADR’s). By using a pharmacogenomics test to guide prescription, a healthcare provider is able to consider the individual patient’s genetics when choosing which medication to prescribe, bypassing the trial-and-error phase, minimising side effects and the risk of ADR’s. This could be saving the patient money on their healthcare down the line.
In a study published in 2022 shows a review of 108 studies considering the cost versus financial benefit of using a PGx test to guide prescription choices. 71% of these studies indicate that using a PGx test is significantly cost-effective or cost-saving. It was most cost-effective to use a PGx test for the following drugs: Clopidogrel, Warfarin, HLA testing for Abacavir, Allopurinol, or Carbamazepine/Phenytoin, and Antidepressants.
PharmaGene is more than just a pharmacogenomics test, it also offers a live online portal, which a healthcare practitioner can use to manipulate a patient’s regimen in real time to achieve the lowest risk score possible. The portal will automatically update as more drugs and pharmacogenomic data becomes available making this test valid throughout a patient’s life. This tool allows you to provide your patients with targeted, precision medicine, optimising their treatment and saving them money down the line.
Please see the link below demonstrating the PharmaGene Live portal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fM1ODwA8IVY
Read the full article here. Cost Effectiveness of Pharmacogenetic Testing for Drugs with Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) Guidelines: A Systematic Review - PMC (nih.gov)