Background: Precision Oncology (PO) is increasingly recognised as a transformative approach in managing complex metastatic cancers, enabling tailored therapies based on specific tumour genomics. However, the extent to which Precision Oncology is utilised in regional healthcare settings remains unclear, particularly in regional areas, where needs and usage has not been comprehensively evaluated.
Aims: This study aims to assess the current demand for and utilisation of PO services in the Gippsland region. Specifically, it investigates the number of advanced cancer patients across various tumour streams (breast, prostate, gastrointestinal and others) discussed at multidisciplinary meetings (MDMs) and the proportion undergoing genomic sequencing.
Methods:
Analysis was conducted using data from advanced disease MDMs at Latrobe Regional Health (LRH) between June 2023 and February 2025. Patients were categorised by tumour stream, and referral data for genomic testing was assessed. Utilisation rates were calculated by comparing the number of patients discussed at MDMs with those referred for testing, receiving complete genomic results, and ultimately benefiting from matched treatment recommendations.
Results:
Over the 20-month study period, 334 patients were presented at MDM at LRH. Of these, 91 patients (27%) were referred for genomic sequencing, with 53 (16%) receiving complete results and 46 (14%) receiving matched treatment recommendations based on their molecular profile. The majority of the referrals to genomic testing were for patients with a primary cancer site of prostate (26%) or lung (26%) followed by breast (20%) and pancreatic cancer(19%). The top genes found in this cohort of patients were TP53 (43%), CDKN2A (31%), CDKN2B (20%) and KRAS (19%).
Conclusion:
This study provides critical insight into the current state of PO use in regional areas such Gippsland, revealing both promising early utilisation and substantial unmet need. The data underscore the importance of improving referral pathways, education, and infrastructure to support broader access to genomic testing and personalised treatment.