Dr. Paulson on the Importance of Biomarker Testing in Oncology

R. Steven Paulson, MD, physician, Texas Oncology, discusses the importance of molecular testing in the era of precision medicine in oncology.

It is challenging for general oncologists to keep up with all of the constant treatment advancements in every malignancy, Paulson explains. All patients with advanced tumors, especially those defined as stage ≥III, should be considered for biomarker testing, says Paulson.

Texas Oncology utilizes tools that help guide the decision-making process on molecular testing in terms of laboratory tests, and help determine what tests should be ordered and what tests are actionable upon patients. Physicians and researchers at Texas Oncology apply a model to both order the appropriate test for diagnosis and, in particular, to use that data to maximize the benefit of the patient, concludes Paulson.