#United States #St. Louis #Mercy Health #Genetic Testing #cancer screening

Mercy Implements New Hereditary Testing for High-Risk Patients

In an innovative move aimed at improving patient outcomes, Mercy's Center for Precision Medicine has unveiled a new screening tool designed specifically for high-risk patients who may benefit from hereditary DNA testing. In collaboration with Tempus, a leading genetic testing company, Mercy is on the forefront of health systems nationwide, advocating for proactive genetic screenings in the communities it serves.

Dr. Jay Carlson, the medical director for oncology at Mercy, emphasizes the significance of this initiative. Oftentimes, patients grapple with questions regarding the preventability of their cancers, especially when considering that many cancers stem from genetic mutations inherited from family. Traditionally, genetic testing was offered primarily to those already diagnosed with cancer; however, Mercy's new program significantly broadens access, empowering individuals to better understand their inherited cancer risks.

This program focuses on hereditary, or germline, DNA mutations that are present in all cells of the body and increase the likelihood of developing several types of health complications, particularly hereditary cancers. These include breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancers, which are closely tied to genetic risk factors. In response to the pressing need for early intervention, Mercy's proactive approach introduces an online survey to patients prior to their routine breast cancer screenings to assess both personal and family medical histories.

The risk assessment not only identifies high-risk individuals for hereditary testing but also serves to direct them to appropriate breast cancer screening programs. Remarkably, about 10% of patients surveyed qualify as high risk, enabling them to receive additional annual screenings, such as breast MRIs, to complement traditional mammograms.

For those identified as carrying a significant genetic risk, Mercy facilitates further family assessments by providing complimentary genetic testing for close relatives, which can elevate the chances of early detection and intervention. Given the nature of genetic transmission, relatives of patients who test positive may have up to a 50% likelihood of carrying the same genetic mutation. Interventions available aim at mitigating the linked cancer risks associated with these genetic factors.

Once patients consent to the blood test, it becomes a straightforward procedure, as the test comprehensively evaluates a panel of 77 genes. To accommodate all patients, including those whose insurance may not cover genetic testing, Tempus offers financial assistance to ensure everyone receives necessary care.

Mercy, recognized as one of the largest healthcare systems in the U.S., caters to millions of individuals each year, providing exemplary patient experiences across its extensive network, which includes over 55 acute care and specialty hospitals, across multiple states. With a commitment to patient welfare, Mercy also delivered over half a billion dollars in charitable care during the last fiscal year.

With this new screening tool, Mercy aims not only to improve the lives of individuals impacted by cancer but also to educate families on the potential inherited risks. The initiative represents a significant step towards preventive healthcare, highlighting the importance of understanding genetic backgrounds to foster a culture of lifelong health and family well-being.

In summary, Mercy's groundbreaking hereditary testing program emerges as a vital resource for those at high risk for cancer. By harnessing genetic insights, the healthcare system not only enhances individual patient care but also contributes to the broader discourse on family health dynamics, encouraging all to engage actively with their health narratives.