Panel Presentation: Pharmacogenomics: Post COVID-19 Expansion of Molecular Testing

Due to the rapid emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, molecular diagnostic technologies have expanded significantly. Although several diagnostic approaches were developed, real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assays became the primary method for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Historically used culture-based methods for diagnosing COVID-19 would be insufficient due to long processing times.  The sensitivity and specificity of molecular techniques created an immense opportunity for new product development and deployment to serve an urgent and evolving need for testing at large scale. This new opportunity for new testing opens the doors for laboratories to utilize RT-PCR testing for not only COVID-19, but for other infectious diseases as well as genetic testing, such as pharmacogenomics. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Discuss how to assess your current lab capabilities including technology assessment and understanding your laboratory’s strengths and weaknesses.

2. Discuss the current market state of molecular testing with a key focus on pharmacogenomics as well as potential opportunities.

3. Discuss what it looks like to create an implementation plan that is relevant to your labs needs.