Clinical Applications of Genomic Testing - Pharmacogenetics | Self-Paced

Course Description

Explore the realm of pharmacogenetics (PGx), where the interplay between genetics and medication response unfolds. In this course, discover why PGx testing is heralded as a pivotal tool in modern healthcare, with the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services recognizing its necessity for over 100 commonly prescribed medications. Yet, despite its potential, the integration of PGx into clinical practice has been gradual, hindered by a lack of physician confidence and familiarity.

In this course, bridge the gap between theory and practice as you learn the essentials of PGx interpretation and application. Overcome barriers with comprehensive instruction designed to empower primary care providers with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently navigate the complexities of PGx testing in clinical care. From understanding the basics of genetic variations to deciphering actionable insights from test results, this course equips learners with the tools to optimize medication management and enhance patient outcomes.

Join us on a journey into the future of personalized medicine, where the power of genetics meets the art of compassionate care. A total of 20-30 hours of content is complimented by required reading (e.g., clinical guidelines and underlying scientific studies, both typically open access) and application of PGx in clinical cases using simulated PGx results. Online quizzes will be used to ensure learners have achieved competencies. These asynchronous, yet interactive individual activities allow for practicing providers across the globe to complete the content on their own schedule.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the underlying concepts and principles of PGx.
2. Identify the indications and limitations of clinical PGx testing.
3. Describe the role of cytochrome P450 enzymes and drug transporters in drug metabolism.
4. Recognize the impact of genetic variation on drug response in cardiovascular, psychiatric, analgesia, and cancer treatments.
5. Apply PGx testing results to optimize drug therapy in primary care practice.
6. Discuss the ethical, legal, and social implications of PGx testing.

Key Topics

• History of inherited drug response, genetics refresher, role of PGx in precision medicine
• Types of assays and their limitations, turnaround time, clinical- vs. research- testing, cost estimates
• Gold standard resources, ontogeny/considerations for pediatrics and geriatrics, phenoconversion
• Antidepressants, antipsychotics, medications for ADHD
• Statins, clopidogrel, beta blockers
• Opioids, NSAIDs, tricyclic antidepressants
• Liability around PGx results, secondary findings from sequencing, discrimination/insurability, disparities, familial implications
• Pre-test counseling, post-test counseling
• Reimbursement, practice models, documenting results, clinical decision support
• Biobanks and population health, polygenic risk score, drug development, whole genome sequencing, epigenetics

Target Audience

The intended audience is general internists, primary care physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants who may encounter PGx testing in their practice. 

Certificate

After successfully completing the course, learners will receive a certificate of completion from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Department of Genetic Medicine. 

Learning Prerequisites

There are no specific educational prerequisites; however, some basic knowledge of science, particularly genetics, is recommended. You will need to have English language fluency.

Technical Prerequisites

The course will take place on the Canvas LMS (Canvas.jhu.edu). You will need the ability to log on to the platform, preferably using Google Chrome, to complete the content, which will include videos, readings, and assignments. You may also need to take part in other activities on Canvas.jhu.edu.

• Hardware requirements: computer; webcam; microphone and speakers or headset.
• Software requirements: Google Chrome web browser; access to Canvas.jhu.edu; Zoom web conferencing; Microsoft Office or similar; email

Course Lifecycle and Access

After registering, you will receive an email confirming your registration. You will be granted access to the course, which includes complete course information. Please check the course listing for additional information on course access dates. For synchronous courses, learners will have access to the Canvas course for the duration of the course. For asynchronous courses, learners will have access for 180 days after registration. 

Tuition Remission

This course may qualify for tuition remission. Please check https://hr.jhu.edu/benefits-worklife/tuition-assistance/tuition-reimbursement/noncredit-courses-at-jhu/ for guidelines. If you are interested in using tuition remission, please email the OOE support email with your request.

Refund Policy and Timeline

• Synchronous Courses
  • Refunds may be requested up to the start of the live activity, unless otherwise noted. All refund requests will incur a 10% processing fee.
• Asynchronous Courses
  • Refunds are not allowed for active asynchronous courses.

Technical Support Statement

Please direct all technical support requests to the OOE support email. We will respond to requests within 24-48 hours. Requests received on weekends, overnights and holidays will be responded to on the next business day.

Accessibility Statement

JHU SOM is committed to providing all participants with the opportunity to pursue excellence in their learning endeavors. This includes providing disability related accommodations and services in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and our goal of delivering accessible, inclusive experiences. If you require accommodations to complete this course, please reach out to the  OOE support email. Please do not include any personal identifiable information such as social security number in any messages. 

Accreditation

JHU is not approved by Middle States for direct assessment credentials for academic credit. This course results in a certificate of completion. It will not show on any JHU transcripts and does not count toward an academic record.