Sujit S Sansgiry, PhD, Anagha Nadkarni, BS, and Monali J Bhosle, BS. Clinical Sciences and Administration, University of Houston, 1441, Moursund St, Houston, TX 77030, 7137958392, SSansgiry@uh.edu

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine community pharmacists′ perception regarding genetic testing and the impact of the Human Genome Project (HGP) on issues pertaining to pharmacy and public health. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Houston Metropolitan area by administering a survey to community pharmacists. Pharmacist′s perception regarding genetic testing and impact of HGP on the pharmacist′s role was evaluated using a multi-item, 5-point Likert scale, where 1 = Strongly Disagree and 5 = Strongly Agree. Demographic and practice setting data was also obtained. The data were coded and analyzed using the SAS statistical package to perform descriptive analyses. Results: A total of 377 pharmacists responded (response rate 75.4%). Pharmacists disagreed that they should provide genetic testing services (2.53 SD 1.07). They agreed that information learned from the HGP would increase the number of new drugs marketed in the future (3.74 SD 0.81) and that these drugs would improve health outcomes (3.57 SD 0.79). However, they indicated that training on the proper handling of drugs developed due to advances in the HGP was necessary (3.95 SD 0.71). Pharmacist′s also felt that pharmacy schools should include information on HGP in their curriculum (3.72 SD 0.88). Conclusion: Pharmacist′s believe that they do not have adequate knowledge regarding advances in the HGP and are reticent about providing genetic testing services to their patients. In the interest of public health and safety, sufficient training should be imparted to the pharmacists on these issues through continuing education programs.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of this session the participants will be able to understand the critical issues such as cost of medicaion, quality of life, policy implications for improved health care.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.