Virtual genetics board for enhancing knowledge and practice of prostate cancer genetic testing: The ENGAGEMENT study.

Abstract

184 Background: With the increasing indications for germline testing for prostate cancer (PCA), there is a growing need for a spectrum of providers to develop working knowledge and understand considerations of germline testing and genetic counseling. A virtual genetics board was developed to provide case-based discussion of PCA germline testing, standard of care and clinical trial management, hereditary cancer management, and genetic counseling. Methods: A virtual genetics board was launched including experts in GU medical oncology, prostate cancer genetics, radiation oncology, urology, clinical trials, genetic counseling, and molecular oncology. Conferences are held monthly, with cases covering metastatic PCA, high-risk disease, early-stage PCA, or PCA screening. Participants complete a baseline survey of demographic information and cancer genetics knowledge. Post-conference survey includes retaking knowledge questions and feedback on cases and Zoom format. Results: At the time of this report, 57 participants have engaged in the virtual genetics board. Participants include genetic counselors (21%), nurse practitioners (21%), medical oncologists (14%), researchers/scientists (14%), nurses (9%), urologists (5%), radiation oncologists (4%), and other specialties. Practice settings include academic centers (49%), public hospitals (16%), private hospitals (11%), and other settings. The baseline survey was completed by 55 participants, and post-conference survey by 34 participants. Knowledge scores increased regarding cancer inheritance, rates of mutations in metastatic PCA, BRCA2-related cancers, risk of PCA for HOXB13 carriers, and risk for PCA in African American males. Feedback was positive, with over 90% favorable responses on usability of technology, usefulness of case discussions, and relevance to informational needs. Conclusions: Initial results support a virtual genetics board to increase PCA genetic evaluation knowledge. The ENGAGEMENT study is ongoing with monthly live case discussions that are also recorded for on-demand viewing; registration is available at www.prostategenetics.com/engagement.[Table: see text]