MD, PhD,
Executive Director,
Precision Genomics
Intermountain Healthcare is a Utah-based not-for-profit system of 23 hospitals and 170 clinics that employs close to 2300 physicians and advanced practice clinicians. It serves patients through its insurance division, SelectHealth, and other organizations. As part of Intermountain Healthcare, Precision Genomics provides the opportunity for research and discover to then be translated into clinical practice. To learn more, GEN spoke with Lincoln Nadauld, MD, PhD, executive director of Precision Genomics.
GEN: What is Precision Genomics?
Nadauld: Intermountain Precision Genomics leverages the power of next-generation sequencing and other genomic technologies to enable translational research, the clinical implementation of precision medicine, and the measurement of patient outcomes. Providing a multidisciplinary approach across oncology, cardiovascular medicine, behavioral medicine, pediatrics, and primary care.
GEN: Why was the Precision Genomics group formed?
Nadauld: Intermountain Healthcare has always invested in motivative methods for delivering outstanding care. Intermountain Precision Genomics was formed with the purpose to lead in the clinical implementation of precision medicine to improve outcomes. Intermountain Healthcare is unique in that we are enabled to implement precision medicine through a robust clinical program structure to fit within our mission of “helping patients to live the healthiest lives possible®.”
GEN: What kinds of tests and services does the group offer?
Nadauld: Intermountain Precision Genomics is a comprehensive service line within Intermountain Healthcare that supports all precision medicine and clinical genetics needs across our healthcare system and clinical programs.
Our Translational Science Center was established to enable investigators, collaborators, and research partners access to the latest genomic technologies and highest quality data to generate novel discoveries that improve patient outcomes in healthcare.
GEN: What is NGS ONE™?
Nadauld: NGS ONE was created as a vehicle for collaborators to experience our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Through NGS ONE, researchers gain access to the high-quality whole-genome, whole-exome, or RNA-seq data that research projects demand.
GEN: What is the long-term vision?
Nadauld: To create long-term collaborations with partner institutions globally who seek to make discoveries that will improve the lives of patients. We are in an era of genomics and precision medicine that is unprecedented. In the coming years, we will witness advancements in treatment approaches enabled by our understanding of genomics that will transform the way we treat patients.
In an era of static healthcare resources, it is our responsibility to implement technologies that will not only improve patient outcomes but also save on costs.
