Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Implementation in Rural and Underserved Montana

My project focuses on optimizing pharmacogenetic (PGx - A medical tool used to tailor a person's treatment based on their genes) testing, in rural pediatric psychiatry in Montana. A problem faced with PGx as an emerging health tool is limited access and difficulties implementing PGx services in rural, underserved, and tribal populations, which further healthcare disparities. Improving access and understanding of PGx would help alleviate these disparities and improve health outcomes. This project sought to answer what the perspectives on current implementations of PGx are. The project addresses healthcare disparities by evaluating provider and patient perspectives on PGx services in addition to how PGx has affected their treatment plans. PGx testing can improve treatment efficacy and reduce medication-related adverse effects in pediatric psychiatry. Provider engagement and patient satisfaction are key factors in successful implementation, and further education and outreach are needed to maximize adoption. We developed and implemented qualitative surveys to assess provider uptake, utilization, and satisfaction with PGx, as well as patient perspectives on PGx-guided treatment. Provider feedback is gathered through post-consult and quarterly surveys. Patient experiences are evaluated via a post-consult survey. Data analysis and visualization are conducted using R and Tableau. My project will improve access to precision medicine and PGx testing in rural and tribal communities. This research promotes more effective, personalized psychiatric care by addressing barriers to adopting PGx. Findings will help inform best practices for integrating PGx into rural healthcare to reduce health disparities and enhance treatment outcomes for all populations.