Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Healthcare Genetics

Committee Chair/Advisor

Janice S. Withycombe

Committee Member

Christopher L. Farrell

Committee Member

Tracy Brock Lowe

Committee Member

Wesley G. Patterson

Abstract

ABSTRACT This dissertation comprises five chapters concentrated on the communication of molecular profiling (MP) results between patients with cancer and oncology providers. Chapter I introduces MP and describes the significance of this testing. Chapter II is a state-of-the-art literature review focused on cancer patients’ expectations, knowledge, attitudes, satisfaction, and concerns regarding MP. Nineteen articles were reviewed, and findings revealed gaps in the communication process between patients and clinicians. Chapter III is a case study entitled “A Case for Caution: Patient Use of Artificial Intelligence.” In this case, pitfalls become apparent when a patient utilizes an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot as a stand-alone resource for interpreting the meaning of MP results and receives an erroneous prognosis. Chapter IV consists of an original qualitative research study with advanced practice providers (APPs) detailing experiences sharing MP results with oncology patients. Thirteen APPs were interviewed, and findings were analyzed to identify themes related to the communication process. Chapter V synthesizes findings from Chapters II-IV. The literature review, case study, and qualitative research study revealed that educational tools individualized to specific patient MP alterations are critically needed. Additional research is needed to evaluate the incorporation of AI into the communication process for MP results. Continuing education for APPs is needed around MP testing results to keep up with the pace of new findings.

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