A personalized genomic results e-booklet, co-designed and pilot-tested by families

PEC Innov. 2022 Apr 16:1:100039. doi: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100039. eCollection 2022 Dec.

Abstract

Objective: To develop and evaluate a personalizable genomic results e-booklet that helps families understand their genomic testing results and navigate available resources.

Methods: The need for the Genomics Results e-Booklet was identified by families, after which this tool was developed by a team of clinical researchers and three parent-advisors. We customized the genomic results e-booklet for 50 families participating in a genomic sequencing research study. We conducted an assessment using a 19-question survey and semi-structured interviews to elicit feedback and iteratively improve the tool.

Results: 25 users provided feedback via questionnaires and seven respondents were interviewed. Genomic Results e-Booklet recipients responded favorably: 96% of participants stated that it helped them remember information shared during their results appointment, 80% said it had or would help them communicate their results with other healthcare providers, 68% felt that it helped to identify and guide their next steps, and 72% anticipated that the e-booklet would have future utility.

Conclusion: The Genomic Results e-Booklet is a patient and family-oriented resource that complements post-test genetic counselling.

Innovation: Compared to traditional laboratory reports and clinical letters, the Genomics Results e-Booklet is patient-conceived and patient-centered, and allows clinicians to efficiently personalize content and prioritize patient understanding and support.

Keywords: Genome sequencing; genetic counselling; genomic results; patient co-design; patient-oriented research.