To investigate patterns of next-generation sequencing (NGS) testing in oncology and identify barriers to its uptake across various demographics and practice settings, emphasizing its role in improving patient outcomes.
Key Findings:
Frequency of NGS testing increased over four years, yet 40-50% of patients still did not receive testing by 2022, highlighting a critical gap in care.
Disparities in testing rates were observed based on race, insurance status, and practice setting, with lower rates among Black and Hispanic patients and those in academic settings, which may adversely affect outcomes.
Time to NGS testing was longer in academic sites compared to community sites, potentially due to differing standards of care and treatment protocols.
Interpretation:
The findings highlight significant barriers to NGS testing and adherence to guideline-concordant care (GCC), which are crucial for improving patient outcomes in oncology, particularly for marginalized groups.
Limitations:
Study may not capture all factors influencing NGS testing uptake, including patient preferences and provider knowledge.
Potential biases in electronic health record data, such as incomplete records or misclassification.
Conclusion:
Improving NGS testing rates is essential for enhancing guideline-concordant care and patient outcomes in oncology, necessitating streamlined access to updated guidelines and decision-support tools, while addressing disparities in testing.
