Early-Stage Breast Cancer: Integrating Genomic Testing into Clinical Workflow

Dr. Sonya Reid invites Dr. Allison DiPasquale to discuss how genomic testing is incorporated into the clinical workflow for patients with early-stage HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. Dr. DiPasquale explains that, as the breast surgical oncologist, she often serves as the initial point of contact following diagnosis and coordinates the multidisciplinary treatment pathway. She describes how genomic assays are incorporated early in the patient journey to help inform discussions regarding adjuvant therapy and establish realistic expectations before surgery. Dr. DiPasquale emphasizes that early access to genomic information supports more informed conversations about the potential role of systemic therapy while reinforcing that final treatment recommendations are made in the context of complete pathologic findings and the overall clinical picture. She also highlights the importance of patient education and shared decision-making, noting that integrating genomic testing into the workflow facilitates individualized care and helps patients better understand the rationale behind personalized treatment recommendations for early-stage breast cancer.