As genomic testing increases, it is time to focus on post test care for patients

16th October 2020

Excerpt from article:

It is time for genetics services to rethink where they are focusing their resources, argue two genetic counsellors with experience of working in NHS specialist genetic services, research, and policy

Genomic testing is increasingly a part of mainstream healthcare and is positioned high on the political agenda (Chief Medical Officers Report 2017, EU Commission). A recent UK government report (Genome UK) and previous announcements by Matt Hancock, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, have raised the profile of genomics as a technology offering significant benefits to patients in terms of predicting and diagnosing disease, as well as personalising treatments. Initiatives such as the 100,000 Genomes Project, changes in the delivery of laboratory genetic services in the NHS in England, and the launch of the new NHS Genomic Medicine Service, mean that genomic technology is here to stay.

• Full article on the BMJ website

Patch C, Middleton A (2020) As genomic testing increases, it is time to focus on post test care for patients. [Blog] The BMJ Opinion. [Online] 16 October. Available at: https://blogs.bmj.com/bmj/2020/10/16/as-genomic-testing-increases-it-is-time-to-focus-on-post-test-care-for-patients/ [Accessed: 29 October 2020]