Public Consulation On Genetic Testing

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Public Consulation On Genetic Testing

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=47132

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is

inviting the public to participate in a consultation on proposed new

Guidelines for Quality Assurance in Molecular Genetic Testing.

Genetic testing - using DNA data - is now a normal procedure to

predict, define and cure many health conditions and diseases. The

Guidelines offer principles and best practices for human genetic

testing by encouraging high quality laboratory practices in the

collection and handling of samples and data, result reporting,

education and training, and where possible, the clinical validity and

utility of the tests.

The Guidelines are meant to encourage quality assurance systems for

human genetic and genomic testing, guarantee the international

exchange of clinical samples and access to data on rare disease

testing, as well as help meet OECD member countries' efforts to

supply high quality healthcare to their citizens. Currently, quality

assurance of genetic testing in most countries is regulated on a

voluntary basis and introduction of international guidelines will aid

harmonisation of genetic testing systems.

About NATIONAL GENETICS REFERENCE LABORATORY MANCHESTER

In 2002, National Genetics Reference Laboratories in Manchester &

Wessex were established as an initiative by the Department of Health

to support the UK genetic laboratory services. While based in

England, the laboratories work closely with genetic service providers

in all of the UK home countries. The laboratories evolved from the

Manchester and Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratories, which provide

NHS diagnostic services for their local populations. The NGRLs are

well placed to evaluate technologies and systems that are close to

service or in service and assess their applicability to the National

Health Service. The specific remit of the laboratories includes: *

Horizon Scanning and Technology Assessment * Developing new Quality

Assessment Systems * Developing reference and control reagents *

Developing information systems for genetics * Providing advice to

government and other bodies This remit has been translated into

complementary work programmes for the two laboratories. The

laboratories work closely together and regularly consult with the

service providers on their needs and encourage their feedback

NATIONAL GENETICS REFERENCE LABORATORY MANCHESTER

St 's Hospital

Hathersage Road

http://www.ngrl.org.uk