The Value Of A Genetic Counselor For Patient Identification

97 Background: Advances in genetics are rapidly changing cancer care and requiring institutions to maximize the unique skills of genetics professionals. The identification of genetic syndromes is vital for prevention and management of families with high cancer risks. Despite this high risk patients and families who qualify for genetic counseling are not referred; this is due to increasing responsibilities on physicians. Genetic counselors could be utilized to review new oncology charts to improve identification.A genetics assessment tool developed by NCI Community Cancer Centers Program generated baseline measurements of 2010 tumor registry data of patients meeting NCCN guidelines for genetics evaluation. A weekly list of new oncology patients was provided to a genetic counselor who reviewed each H&P dictation focusing on the pathology, age, and family history sections. The genetic counselor notified the oncologist by email or through the EMR system, and the physician discussed genetic counseling with patient or approved the order. Post implementation of the chart review program was measured using 2011 tumor registry data.In 2010 58% of total applicable patients were offered a genetics evaluation. In 2011 this improved to 70%. Based on disease type: 69% (breast), 59% (colon), 29% (ovary), and 20% (uterine) were offered a genetics evaluation in 2010. In 2011 these numbers were 76% (breast), 64% (colon), 91% (ovary), and 20% (uterine). Over a 10-month period a total of 122 patients were identified through the chart review program by the genetic counselor. Three of these were confirmed to have a genetic mutation for one of the hereditary cancer syndromes. An average week included review of 73 charts for 10 medical oncologists, 4 radiation oncologists, 4 pediatric oncologists, which generated 60 to 80 minutes of work weekly for the counselor.This program improved patient identification and allowed physicians to become more aware of opportunities for genetic consultation that led to a streamlined referral process and allowed more applicable patients to receive counseling and testing. Project funded in whole or part with Federal Funds from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Contract No. HHSN261200800001E.