Improving access to hereditary cancer genetic testing for people with cancer
The IMproving Access to Genetic INformation for Everyone (IMAGINE) Study: A Prospective Trial of a Mainstreaming Model for Hereditary Cancer Multigene Panel Testing Among Cancer Patients
This project tests a simpler pathway that lets cancer care teams (not only genetic counselors) offer multigene hereditary cancer testing to patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159593 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I am asked to try a new, simpler approach that lets my cancer doctor or clinic order multigene hereditary cancer testing without a long pre-test genetic counseling visit. The team will adapt and test plain-language educational materials using patient interviews and cultural/transcreation methods, then compare outcomes when testing is ordered by non-genetics providers with genetic counselor support at result disclosure. Researchers will measure decision-making, emotional impacts, communication with family, and whether recommended follow-up care and family testing happen. The project aims to include people with different cancers and from diverse backgrounds so the approach works for many patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with cancer who have not already completed hereditary multigene panel testing and who receive care at participating cancer clinics are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who already had hereditary genetic testing, healthy people without cancer, or patients not seen at participating clinics are unlikely to benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make genetic testing faster and easier to get, help patients and families receive risk information sooner, and reduce delays in genetics-informed care.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mainstreaming programs showed promise for BRCA1/2 testing but have been less tested for broader multigene panels and diverse patient groups.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hamilton, Jada Gabrielle — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Hamilton, Jada Gabrielle
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.