The Geisinger MyCode Community Health Initiative: an electronic health record-linked biobank for Precision Medicine research

PURPOSE: Geisinger Health System (GHS) provides an ideal platform for Precision Medicine. Key elements are the integrated health system, stable patient population, and electronic health record (EHR) infrastructure. In 2007 Geisinger launched MyCode(®), a system-wide biobanking program to link samples and EHR data for broad research use. METHODS: Patient-centered input into MyCode(®) was obtained using participant focus groups. Participation in MyCode(®) is based on opt-in informed consent and allows recontact, which facilitates collection of data not in the EHR, and, since 2013, the return of clinically actionable results to participants. MyCode(®) leverages Geisinger’s technology and clinical infrastructure for participant tracking and sample collection. RESULTS: MyCode(®) has a consent rate of >85% with more than 90,000 participants currently, with ongoing enrollment of ~4,000 per month. MyCode(®) samples have been used to generate molecular data, including high-density genotype and exome sequence data. Genotype and EHR-derived phenotype data replicate previously reported genetic associations. CONCLUSION: The MyCode(®) project has created resources that enable a new model for translational research that is faster, more flexible, and more cost effective than traditional clinical research approaches. The new model is scalable, and will increase in value as these resources grow and are adopted across multiple research platforms.