OPTimizing Treatment Focused Genetic Testing IN Cancer

In this research study, the investigators are introducing the option of two alternatives to genetic counseling before genetic testing: Chatbot and video education.

The first part of this research study is a Pilot Study, which is the first-time investigators are examining the use of a Chatbot to deliver pre-genetic test education. The Chatbot will converse with you about germline genetic testing by text message.

The Pilot study will enroll 200 participants with a metastatic breast or ovarian cancer diagnosis and will assess the uptake of genetic testing among the two possible groups of pre-genetic test counseling.

The second part of this research study will utilize findings from the Pilot Study for 1000 participants with a diagnosis of breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer.

In both parts of this research study, participants will be randomized to either the video education or Chatbot. Participants may request in-person genetic counseling after their respective education prior to testing.

Other studies at both DFCI and outside institutions have started to investigate alternative methods of educating patients about genetic testing. These studies have suggested that alternatives to standard genetic counseling may increase access to genetic testing with similar satisfaction to standard of care.

The investigators are hoping to get a sense of participants' preferences for pre genetic test education, understanding, and reactions to the alternative methods of genetic counseling. The investigators are also hoping to understand preferences for communication of their result and whether any treatment changes have been made after they receive their result.