Patient Genotypes Guide Drug Therapy In New VU Program
Posted Sep 24 2010 3:26pm
Beginning this month, all patients undergoing cardiac catheterization at Vanderbilt University Medical Center will be tested for a genetic variation that can affect their response to a blood-thinner many of them will end up taking.
The genetic information will be placed in their electronic medical records to help their physicians choose the drug and dose that is best for them.
The goal is to reduce the risk of future complications, including strokes, heart attacks and sudden cardiac death.
Vanderbilt is the first medical center in the country to deliver this form of “decision-supported, personalized” drug therapy, said Jeff Balser, M.D., Ph.D., vice chancellor for Health Affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.
No one else puts genetic information into the electronic record before it is needed, he said Monday during his State of the Medical Center address.
Beginning this month, all patients undergoing cardiac catheterization at Vanderbilt University Medical Center will be tested for a genetic variation that can affect their response to a blood-thinner many of them will end up taking.
The genetic information will be placed in their electronic medical records to help their physicians choose the drug and dose that is best for them.
The goal is to reduce the risk of future complications, including strokes, heart attacks and sudden cardiac death.
Vanderbilt is the first medical center in the country to deliver this form of “decision-supported, personalized” drug therapy, said Jeff Balser, M.D., Ph.D., vice chancellor for Health Affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.
No one else puts genetic information into the electronic record before it is needed, he said Monday during his State of the Medical Center address.