Opportunities to implement a sustainable genomic medicine program: Lessons learned from the IGNITE Network

Purpose While there is growing scientific evidence for and significant advances in the use of genomic technologies in medicine, there is a significant lag in the clinical adoption and sustainability of genomic medicine. Here we describe the findings from the National Human Genome Research Institute’s (NHGRI) Implementing GeNomics In pracTicE (IGNITE) Network in identifying key constructs, opportunities, and challenges associated with driving sustainability of genomic medicine in clinical practice. Methods Network members and affiliates were surveyed to identify key drivers associated with implementing and sustaining a genomic medicine program. Tallied results were used to develop and weigh key constructs/drivers required to support sustainability of genomic medicine programs. Results The top 3 driver-stakeholder dyads were 1. Genomic training for providers, 2. Genomic clinical decision support (CDS) tools embedded in the Electronic Health Record (EHR), 3. Third party reimbursement for genomic testing. Conclusion Priorities may differ depending on healthcare systems when comparing the current state of key drivers vs. projected needs for supporting genomic medicine sustainability. Thus we provide gap-filling guidance based on IGNITE members’ experiences. Although results are limited to findings from the IGNITE network, their implementation, scientific and clinical experience may be used as a road map by others considering implementing genomic medicine programs.