Healthcare System Priorities for Successful Integration of Genomics: An Australian Focus

Abstract

This paper examines key considerations for the successful integration of genomic technologies into healthcare systems. All healthcare systems strive to introduce new technologies that are effective and affordable, but genomics offers particular challenges, given the rapid evolution of the technology. In this context we frame internationally relevant discussion points relating to effective and sustainable implementation of genomic testing within the strategic priority areas of the recently endorsed Australian National Health Genomics Policy Framework. The priority areas are services, data, workforce, finances, and person-centred care. In addition, we outline recommendations from a government perspective through the lens of the Australian health system, and argue that resources should be allocated not to just genomic testing alone, but across the five strategic priority areas for full effectiveness.

Indigenous Genomic Databases: Pragmatic Considerations and Cultural Contexts

“…The push for precision medicine is escalating in countries with resources to engage in genomic and genetic research in health-related fields (1)(2)(3). Reported success stories highlight potential benefits for both rare genetic conditions and other diagnoses such as cancer.…”

A community-based co-designed genetic health service model for Aboriginal Australians

“…Growing evidence suggests that this improves health outcomes and increases patient satisfaction [ 34 ]. This concept has also recently gained traction in genomics policy in Australia as evidenced by its inclusion as one of the five strategic priorities in the National Health Genomics Policy Framework 2018–2021 [ 35 , 36 ].…”

Integrating Genetic Data into Electronic Health Records: Medical Geneticists' Perspectives

“…As genetic data have to be used along with the data stored in the EHRs, the documents related to the EHRs of the selected countries were also searched and reviewed. The reviewed documents included ‘Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) Network’ [15], ‘Genomics and Genome Editing in the NHS’ [17], ‘Annual report of the Chief Medical Officer 2016, generation genome’ [19] ‘National Health Genomics Policy Framework 2018–2021’ [20], and papers related to the topic of the study [91011121314161821222324252627]. In the second phase, a questionnaire was designed based on the results derived from the first phase of the study and the literature review.…”

“…The Australian government developed the National Health Genomics Policy Framework (NHGPF) in recognition of the need for using genomic technology across the health system. The framework was endorsed in November 2017 by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Health Council, and it represents a shared commitment to the implementation of genomic technology into health systems for the benefit of all Australians [18]. In Iran, however, the recording and storage of genetic data are performed either manually or electronically, and they are not integrated into the rest of the patient's medical records or the health system.…”