A new resource to help prescribers develop their pharmacogenomic competence and standardise pharmacogenomic education across professions has been opened for consultation by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS).
Pharmacogenomics is the study of how genetic variation influences drug response, to enable safer and more effective prescribing and this resource aims to improve patient outcomes through medicines optimisation.
The RPS was commissioned to develop this resource by the NHS England Network of Excellence in Pharmacogenomics and Medicines Optimisation as the number of pharmacogenomic tests available within mainstream clinical practice across the UK is increasing.
The consultation will also explore whether new pharmacogenomic-specific competencies are required or if changes should be recommended to the current Competency Framework for all Prescribers.
The competencies listed within the resource are split into two domains: skills relating to the consultation, and skills relating to prescribing governance.
Domain one includes assessing the patient, identifying evidence-based treatment options, prescribing, providing information and monitoring outcomes.
While domain two focuses on prescribing safely and professionally, improving prescribing practice and prescribing as part of a team.
The RPS is seeking feedback on the draft resource from:
- Prescribers already using pharmacogenomics
- Prescribers interested in using pharmacogenomics
- Organisations employing or representing prescribers
- Individuals and organisations familiar with the Competency Framework for all Prescribers.
Those wanting to contribute should read the draft resource and complete the online consultation questionnaire by Friday 9 January 2026.
Commenting on the consultation, Dr Sophie Harding, consultant pharmacist for Genomics and Pharmacogenomics at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and lead author of the resource, said: ‘Pharmacogenomics has the potential to improve patient outcomes by ensuring that prescribing is better targeted, more personalised and more effective.
‘We want to develop a resource that is practical, high-quality and useful for every prescriber, regardless of setting, profession or level of experience. Your feedback will help us shape a tool that reflects real-world practice and supports safe, evidence-based clinical decision-making.’
A 2023 study found nearly two-thirds of UK qualified pharmacists reported not feeling confident at identifying drugs that required pharmacogenomic testing.
In September, the RPS launched a new e-learning module to help healthcare professionals manage polypharmacy and reduce the risks linked to drug interactions. This included content on pharmacogenomics and artificial intelligence in prescribing.
A version of this article was originally published by our sister publication The Pharmacist.
