Training is being rolled out to healthcare staff across the Eastern region to increase the number of patients having genetic testing.
By getting a genetic of genomic test, patients can get more precise information about their condition which can lead to more personalised and effective treatment.
These tests now form part of the National Genomic Test Directory.
Testing involves reading a patient’s DNA to find out more about their condition and can be carried out using a sample of blood or tissue.
Now several short e-learning modules have been developed by Clinical Geneticists and Genetic Counsellors at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (CUH) to show clinicians how to order genetic tests for patients.
Two of these modules are available to oncologists and cardiologists in both the East of England and East Midlands.
They focus on hereditary (or germline) genetic testing in patients with breast cancer and testing for those with inherited cardiac conditions.
A further module for primary care clinicians is expected to be launched later in the year.
As genomic testing becomes more mainstream these modules should give clinicians the confidence to organise their own testing.
Dr Sarju Mehta, speciality lead
Dr Sarju Mehta, a consultant in clinical genetics at CUH, said:
“These modules should help clinicians know when tests should be ordered and the steps involved so that they can keep their patients informed.
"I am very pleased with the packages our team has produced and hope that clinicians will find them useful.”
Genetic (or genomic) testing is available for a variety of conditions under certain specific criteria.
The NHS National Genomic Test Directory (opens in a new tab) specifies which patients should be offered testing.
It also specifies who can order these tests and this now includes a range of specialists including oncologists and cardiologists to facilitate the mainstreaming of genetic testing.
Once a test has been ordered, the results will be reported back to the requesting clinician within a specific time period so that they can inform the patient.
Most patients will not require a referral to the Clinical Genetics service, however, for any patients with a likely/pathogenic variant or if a genetic cause is strongly suspected a referral should be made by the clinician to the local Clinical Genetics service.
Clinicians can find out more about the training on the East Genomics website. (opens in a new tab)
Thanks to the following team:
- Sarju Mehta, CUH Consultant in Clinical Genetics
- Amy Taylor, Lead Consultant Genetic Counsellor
- Beverley Speight, Principal Genetic Counsellor
- Eleanor Davies, Registered Genetic Counsellor
- Isobel Turbin, Registered Genetic Counsellor