Genomics Champion: Sophie Harding

I have practised as an Oncology Pharmacist at Velindre Cancer Centre (VCC) for the past 13 years. Within my multi-faceted pharmacist role, I have worked as a Non-medical Prescriber within consultant teams for both breast and gynaecology oncology and have developed many governance documents for the safe use of various breast cancer treatments alongside multi-disciplinary colleagues.

More recently, I have also acted as the Non-medical lead for the implementing of DPD testing within VCC and I have been involved in the development of guidelines and documents for the Velindre Genomics Working Group (VGWG). Since my involvement with the VGWG and whilst working on projects and pathways regarding personalised medicines within the oncology multi-disciplinary team, I have become increasingly aware of how important genomics is to all healthcare professionals including pharmacists and pharmacy staff.

As a genomics champion, I hope to help my colleagues within the wider multi-disciplinary team to raise awareness of the fast paced developments within genomics, specifically to pharmacy staff both within Velindre and across Wales. I plan to highlight how genomics will impact the role of the pharmacist and raise the importance of involving and educating pharmacists and pharmacy staff on genomic developments, in order for them to fulfil and provide a high level of pharmaceutical care to all patients within their key future pharmacy roles.