College Hosts Nation’s First ECHO Program Focused on Pharmacogenomics-Informed Clinical Care

The University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy is proud to host the nation's first Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) program focused on pharmacogenomics-informed clinical care. Pharmacogenomics (PGx) ECHO launched in October 2021 and focuses on improving a health professional’s confidence in utilizing PGx in patient care by providing case-based education and consultation through telementoring. The goal is to support healthcare professionals to incorporate evidence-based PGx information into their clinical practice and to foster a community of practice devoted to promoting health equity and expanding patient access to PGx-guided medication management. PGx ECHO holds monthly, hour-long Zoom sessions consisting of an educational mini-lecture or paper, case presentations and discussions. Clinicians seek support in PGx-guided medication management for patients who have had adverse drug events or medication failures or if they need assistance determining when PGx testing may have clinical benefit.  

The University of Minnesota serves as the Hub Team (coordinating group) of the PGx ECHO and there are Spoke Sites (community partners) from across the Midwest at Children's MN, Ferris State University, M Health Fairview, Manchester University, North Dakota State University, South Dakota State University, and Sanford Health.  

The inaugural PGx ECHO occurred on October 15, 2021. The PGx ECHO will be seeking funding opportunities to expand participation to rural and / or underserved communities beyond the Midwest. Ultimately, the PGx ECHO group aims to become a “Super Hub” which will help guide other institutions in setting up their own PGx ECHO projects across the nation. 

To learn more about PGx ECHO visit z.umn.edu/pgxecho or contact pgxecho@umn.edu.