This article explores the evolving landscape of pharmacogenomics (PGx) and the shift from reactive to preemptive testing in clinical practice. Although many PGx tests are currently performed after adverse drug reactions or when considering specific drugs, there is a growing movement toward obtaining genetic information before medication decisions are made. Through the case of Sarah Jenkins, the article demonstrates how identifying genetic variants related to drug metabolism can guide personalized treatment plans, leading to reduced adverse side effects and improved patient outcomes. Key benefits include the prevention of toxicity, reduction of health care costs by avoiding trial-and-error prescribing and related complications, and enhanced patient engagement. Challenges to widespread implementation are discussed, such as the need for comprehensive health care provider education, data privacy and security concerns, and significant cost and reimbursement barriers, particularly in the US health care system. The article concludes by emphasizing the necessity of finding solutions to these challenges to unlock the full potential of preemptive PGx testing and ensure equitable access to personalized medicine.
Crystal Heath Dodson (Fri,) studied this question.
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