Genomics and prevention in the first line
Governance of preventive genomics
Thanks to rapid developments in genomics, researchers are acquiring an ever better understanding of which genes are involved in various medical syndromes. That knowledge is expected to increase the potential for preventive medicine. It is not limited to regular healthcare; companies also offer genetic tests, thereby challenging the healthcare sector to raise its game.
This project studies how the results of genomics research can be used in practice, and what that will mean in the future. The researchers map out the most important stakeholders in the field of genomics and preventive care to create a framework for a communal learning process: what are the expectations of the parties involved, like general practitioners, hospitals, municipal health services and health & safety sector? What kind of role do these stakeholders expect to play in this process? What's more, with the aid of interviews and questionnaires, a study was carried out into the expectations and wishes of citizens and consumers.
Right from the start of this project, the visions of all parties were defined, analysed and given as feedback to the stakeholders. Finally, the study will seek to draw up a joint advice for the embedding and regulation of genetic tests in the first line of healthcare (e.g. general practitioners and midwives).
For this project, researcher Eric Vermeulen is looking for people who have experience with commercial genetic testing for health risks, or are considering having such a test carried out. Click on his name for his e-mail address.
Start project: October 2009