Series 4 Episode 4 - Implementing Pharmacogenetics: What's needed in Mental Health Services

Welcome to Genomics Now, a podcast series where you can learn how genomics is developing in England's NHS. This podcast series is recorded in 2024 and is part of the North Thames Genomic Medicine Services Educational Toolkit.

In each bite-sized episode, we explore what is changing in genomics. We answer the questions on genomics we've been asked by different healthcare professionals, discuss how genomics may impact various healthcare roles, and examine how genomics can be used to successfully improve patient care.

In this episode, hosted by Darmisha Chauhan, focusing on the implementation of pharmacogenetic testing into mental health services. Darmisha is joined by Dr Nick Bass, an academic Psychiatrist based in the Molecular Psychiatry Lab at University College London. Nick shares insights from his research on genetic effects in mental illnesses and discusses the challenges and potential benefits of introducing pharmacogenetic testing in mental health care.

The episode uses CYP2C19 testing as an example, how this genetic test could be integrated into clinical pathways. Nick explains how pharmacogenetics could guide the choice of medications, potentially reducing trial-and-error prescribing, minimising side effects, and improving patient outcomes. The discussion also covers the importance of education and training for healthcare professionals, consent processes, and patient engagement strategies.

Join us as we explore the exciting possibilities of pharmacogenetics in enhancing mental health services and improving patient care.

For more resources and updates on genomic-based clinical developments and research, visit the North Thames Genomic Medicine Service website. If you enjoyed this episode, share your thoughts and spread the word on social media by tagging the North Thames Genomic Medicine Service.