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Ensuring the appropriate use of genetic tests
1Department of Medical History and Ethics, Box 357120, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific, Room A204, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. wburke@u.washington.edu
Nature Reviews. Genetics
|December 2, 2004
Summary
Ensuring appropriate use of genetic tests is crucial for health policy. Strategies beyond regulation, like education and guidelines, are vital for effective clinical integration.
Area of Science:
- Health Policy
- Genetics
- Clinical Governance
Background:
- Genetic tests are increasingly available for disease susceptibility and drug response.
- These tests present challenges regarding their clinical utility and appropriate application.
- Ensuring correct use is a significant concern for health policy makers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges in ensuring the correct use of genetic tests.
- To discuss strategies beyond statutory regulation for appropriate genetic test utilization.
Main Methods:
- Review of current challenges in genetic test implementation.
- Analysis of policy and governance strategies for healthcare interventions.
Main Results:
- Statutory regulation alone is insufficient for guaranteeing appropriate genetic test use.
- New genetic tests vary in clinical value, from prevention opportunities to minimal utility.
- Resource allocation and clinical governance are critical components.
Conclusions:
- Effective use of genetic tests requires a multi-faceted approach.
- Clinical governance, including practice guidelines and health provider education, is essential.
- Health policy must integrate diverse strategies to optimize genetic test application.
Keywords:
Genetics and Reproduction