Related Experiment Videos
GeneTests-GeneClinics: genetic testing information for a growing audience
Roberta A Pagon1, Peter Tarczy-Hornoch, Patricia K Baskin
1University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
Human Mutation
|April 23, 2002
Summary
The GeneTests and GeneClinics databases merged to provide comprehensive genetic testing information. This combined resource supports healthcare providers, patients, and educators with growing usage.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Bioinformatics
- Medical Informatics
Background:
- The increasing use of genetic testing necessitates accessible, reliable information resources.
- GeneTests and GeneClinics were established to address this need, serving distinct but related purposes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development, merging, and expansion of the GeneTests and GeneClinics databases.
- To highlight the integrated GeneTests-GeneClinics website as a comprehensive resource for genetic testing information.
Main Methods:
- Development of GeneTests as a directory of genetic tests and laboratories since 1993.
- Establishment of GeneClinics as an expert-authored knowledge base on genetic testing and patient care since 1997.
- Merging of the two databases and websites in 2001, with GeneClinics knowledge base renamed GeneReviews.
Main Results:
- GeneTests evolved into a database of over 900 tests, 500 laboratories, and 1,000 clinics.
- GeneClinics grew to include over 130 expert-authored disease-specific entries.
- The merged GeneTests-GeneClinics site (www.genetests.org) now serves approximately 3,200 visits daily.
Conclusions:
- The integrated GeneTests-GeneClinics resource effectively meets the expanding demand for genetic testing information.
- The platform serves a diverse international audience, including healthcare providers, patients, and educators.
- The evolution and merging of these databases demonstrate a successful response to the integration of genetic testing into routine medical practice.