Guidance from an informed public on collecting and sharing PGx test results for major depressive disorder: "It's no different from your blood type".

INTRODUCTION

Many people with major depressive disorder (MDD) undergo a lengthy process of trial-and-error before finding a medication that works well for them. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing for MDD can help find a suitable antidepressant faster. However, concerns about health equity, and data privacy and security need to be considered before implementing the test.

METHODS

In Fall 2024, 30 individuals attended a four-day public deliberation in Vancouver, British Columbia (BC) to provide direction on implementing PGx testing for MDD in BC's publicly funded healthcare system. Participants were recruited to represent a diversity of perspectives and experiences of British Columbians. Information supports included expert speakers and a background booklet. Event transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis (both inductive and reflexive), while also accounting for participants' knowledge gains over time.

RESULTS

Participants adopted four policy-relevant positions on implementation: 1) PGx test results should be treated like other lab results; 2) stored in electronic medical records; 3) shared with patients and healthcare professionals in the circle of care; and 4) education about the test will facilitate its widespread use.

CONCLUSION

Participants' positions represent informed, civic-minded, and policy-relevant priorities for the acceptable adoption of PGx testing for MDD in the BC healthcare system and elsewhere.