Non-interventional cardiologists’ perspectives on the role of pharmacogenomic testing in cardiovascular medicine

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate factors influencing cardiologists’ perspectives about pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing in clinical practice. Patients & methods: Semistructured interviews with practicing cardiologists were qualitatively analyzed to identify common themes. Results: Five themes were identified among 16 cardiologists from four specialties (n = 5 general cardiology, n = 3 electrophysiology, n = 2 adult congenital and n = 6 heart failure/transplant): cardiologists’ knowledge and needs, perceived clinical validity and utility of PGx testing, dissemination and management of PGx results, patient-related considerations and incidental findings. Conclusion: Lack of evidence was considered by many cardiologists to be a major barrier hindering the use of PGx testing. However, they would consider adopting PGx if they were provided additional education, ongoing support and evidence supporting the clinical utility of PGx testing in cardiovascular medicine.