Genetic testing can alter therapy and surgical management for cancer patients and is therefore indicated as a first line test for many newly diagnosed patients, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate and colon/GI patients.
To reduce pressure on already constrained genetics clinics across Canada, some cancer centres are initiating genetic testing through oncologists whereby the patient does not complete traditional pre-test genetic counselling. This is known as ‘mainstreaming.’ Without a standard approach for cancer patients to undergo genetic testing, there is variation in practice, coordinated care, and ultimately, negative psychological impacts on patients. Digital solutions can address these gaps by providing a standardized, coordinated and patient-centred approach to deliver cancer genetic counselling. We will design and test a digital web application called the Mainstream Adviser to help support the delivery of genetic testing education and results for cancer patients.
Accepting Students
Each year, I admit MSc and PhD students for interdisciplinary research investigating the impacts of adopting new genomic technologies in clinical care.
This research calls on the following methods: qualitative interviewing, surveys, clinical trials, behavioural and psychological outcomes, health technology assessment, health economics, patient engagement, deliberative democracy, mixed methods analysis. Interested candidates should email a CV, unofficial transcripts, and a brief research proposal (max 1 page). Candidates are strongly encouraged to google advice for effective proposal drafting. A strong introductory email is a great first step towards graduate school admission.
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