Implementing the model
Now, Dr. Ghanbarian and colleagues are interested in potential implementation strategies at a system-wide level. For now, pharmacogenomic tests aren’t offered through the public health systems across Canada, but patients can pay for them through private companies.
“These findings provide a solid economic justification for clinical implementation of pharmacogenomic-guided depression treatment in Canada,” Chad Bousman, PhD, associate professor of physiology and pharmacology at the University of Calgary (Alta.), said in an interview.
Dr. Bousman, who was not involved with this study, coauthored the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium guideline for several genotypes and serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants. He and colleagues have also developed and evaluated web-based tools that translate pharmacogenetic data into evidence-based prescribing recommendations.
“The hope is that this work will facilitate investment in the establishment of the necessary infrastructure to ensure Canadians have equitable access to pharmacogenomic testing and ultimately improve mental health outcomes,” he said.
The study was funded by Genome BC, Genome Canada, and Michael Smith Health Research British Columbia. Dr. Ghanbarian and Dr. Bousman reported no relevant financial relationships.
A version of this article appeared on Medscape.com.