Biomarker Testing in Practice: Navigating Modalities and Multidisciplinary Decision-Making

Program Description

The landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) management has moved beyond traditional chemotherapy to a precision medicine approach centered on identifying targetable driver mutations through comprehensive biomarker testing. Characterizing molecular biomarkers is the cornerstone of care in NSCLC because the identification of these alterations guides the selection of targeted therapies, which have been associated with improved patient survival. However, the current treatment paradigm is complicated by the expanding number of recommended biomarkers (now over 12), the different testing modalities, and the need for careful treatment sequencing to optimally integrate targeted agents with immunotherapy. Clinical teams must be prepared to resolve these ongoing challenges, as real-world data indicate that disparities in testing rates persist and not all patients receive the full benefit of comprehensive testing for recommended biomarkers prior to initial treatment selection. This 4-part panel discussion is designed to equip oncology pharmacists with knowledge on current guideline recommendations for biomarker testing. Panelists will review the clinical rationale for various testing platforms and discuss strategies to address barriers to timely and complete testing. By understanding the importance of comprehensive biomarker testing and appropriate treatment sequencing, participants will be better positioned to enhance the quality of care for patients with NSCLC.

Target Audience: Oncologists and oncology nurses

Type of Activity: Application

Release date: December 5, 2025

Expiration date: December 5, 2026

Time to complete activity: 1.25 hour

Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Compare targeted testing, broad NGS panels, and whole genome sequencing to support appropriate test selection.
• Identify key clinical and operational factors that impact effective biomarker use across the care team.
• Apply guideline-based biomarker strategies to optimize testing and treatment through oncology stewardship.

Disclosures

Allison Schepers, PharmD, BCOP, has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Angel Qin, MD, has the following relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose: Grant/Research Support: AstraZeneca, Genentech, Janssen, Lilly, Merck, Summit Therapeutics; Consultant: AbbVie, Bristol Myers Squibb, Genentech, Janssen, Pfizer, Regeneron, Summit Therapeutics

Ibrahim Azar, MD, has the following relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose: Consultant: AbbVie, AstraZeneca, Genmab; Speakers Bureau: FoundationOne; Other (honoraria): Techspert

Richard D. Hall, MD, has the following relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose: Grant/Research Support: Amgen, AstraZeneca, Daiichi Sankyo, Genentech, Lilly, Merck, Regeneron; Consultant: AbbVie, Amgen, Bayer, EMD Serono, Regeneron, Takeda

Pharmacy Times Continuing Education™ Planning Staff: Jim Palatine, RPh, MBA; Amy L. Morris, PharmD, BCOP; Katie Naspo; Susan Pordon; Brianna Winters; and Chloe Taccetta have no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Any relevant financial relationships listed for these individuals have been mitigated.

At least one anonymous peer reviewer was used as part of content validation and conflict resolution. The peer reviewer has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Educational Disclaimer

CPE activities are offered solely for educational purposes and do not constitute any form of professional advice or referral. Discussions concerning drugs, dosages, and procedures may reflect the clinical experience of the author(s) or they may be derived from the professional literature or other sources and may suggest uses that are investigational in nature and not approved labeling or indications. Participants are encouraged to refer to primary references or full prescribing information resources.

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