Genomics

Study time: 10 minutes

A short introduction to genomics for anyone who is completely new to the topic.

This learning programme has been designed to introduce you to genomics and pharmacogenomics, and to highlight the opportunities they can bring to the provision of person-centred care in your area of practice. It will also allow you to explore the application of genomics and pharmacogenomics in the larger healthcare context.

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of all aspects of this learning programme you should be able to:

• describe the role of genomics and pharmacogenomics in the healthcare context
• discuss some of the terms and concepts used in genomics and identify appropriate supporting resources
• identify how the metabolism of medicines and other biochemical responses are affected by pharmacogenes
• discuss the existing and potential roles and responsibilities of pharmacy professionals in pharmacogenomics, pharmacogenomic testing and personalised medicine
• identify some of the practical, ethical and social issues in implementing genomics in pharmacy
• reflect on your own practice in preparation for pharmacogenomics services provision.

Study time: 30 minutes

Why take this course?

As genomics moves out of specialist services and into the mainstream, it is likely to be encountered by more healthcare professionals than ever before, including those who are engaging with this technology for the first time. This course is designed to give an overview of how genomics can be used in a variety of clinical scenarios.

Who is this course aimed at?

The content of the course is aimed at those healthcare professionals who have had limited or no exposure to genomics in their clinical roles. The course would also be suitable for those looking to refresh their knowledge or support training.

What will I learn?

The course covers the following topics:

This e-assessment is linked with the CPPE Introduction to genomics in pharmacy e-learning programme and assesses you on the learning outcomes in that programme.

Why should I do this assessment?

The National Genomic Test Directory outlines the full range of genomic tests that are commissioned for the NHS in England, the technology by which they are available, and the patients who are eligible to access a test. You can also find information on how the test directory was created and is updated via this link.

This report, jointly authored by Royal College of Physicians and British Pharmacological Society, explores pharmacogenomics in the NHS and offers a perspective on how pharmacogenomics in the UK may develop over time. The report lists a series of recommendations, but it is not a policy document.

The government strategy for genomics in the UK, published in 2020, sets out ambitions for the next ten years. It includes sections on diagnosis and personalised medicine, prevention, research, patient and public engagement, workforce development, data and analytics, industry and regulation.

The Health Education England’s Genomics Education Programme provides educational resources for healthcare professionals. Here you will find links to a wide variety of learning resources, including a glossary of terms, patient videos and fact sheets.

Landing page for NHS England and NHS Improvement’s genomics information. From this page, you can find links to information on the NHS Genomic Medicine Service, genomic research, personalised medicine and genomic resources.

Landing page for Royal Pharmaceutical Society pharmacogenomics resources, including webinar on Demystifying Pharmacogenomics: Pharmacy’s role in personalised medicines and short videos on how pharmacogenomics may impact different sectors of pharmacy.