2023 North America Conference on Lung Cancer (NACLC) - Posters and Abstracts-PP01.77 (Poster) Biomarker testing in lung cancer: perspectives and challenges concerning internal, external and reflexive testing processes in an academic medical center

PP01.77 (Poster) Biomarker testing in lung cancer: perspectives and challenges concerning internal, external and reflexive testing processes in an academic medical center

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This study examined the perspectives and challenges of biomarker testing in lung cancer within an academic medical center. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 healthcare clinicians involved in the care of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. The interviews aimed to understand the experiences and challenges related to biomarker testing.<br /><br />The results showed that there is variability in where biomarker results are uploaded in the electronic health record (EHR) and inconsistent processes for notifying clinicians of available results. This lack of standardization in biomarker testing processes can lead to delays in receiving test results. Additionally, the Medicare 14-day rule limits the timing of when biomarker tests can be ordered, and there are no standard processes for obtaining pre-authorization for biomarker testing internally.<br /><br />Market competition was identified as another challenge, as third-party labs with more resources can be difficult competition for internal pathology labs. Changing guidelines and limited knowledge of clinical rationales for ordering biomarker testing also pose barriers to reflexive (automated) ordering of tests by some pathologists.<br /><br />The study suggests potential solutions to address these challenges, including reflex testing by pathology initiated upon diagnosis, standard operating procedures and streamlined communication for ordering and receiving results, educating and supporting pathologists in their knowledge of biomarkers and reflex testing, and efforts to streamline the ordering processes.<br /><br />Overall, this study highlights the need for standardization in biomarker testing processes to reduce clinician burden and improve timely receipt of results. By addressing these challenges, healthcare systems can better utilize biomarker testing to inform targeted treatment options in NSCLC and improve patient care.

Asset Subtitle

Marie Dreyer

Keywords

biomarker testing

lung cancer

academic medical center

NSCLC

electronic health record

test results

standardization

pathology labs

clinical rationales

patient care