Substandard testing for Down's syndrome, and legal ramifications

Abstract

The majority of women in the UK choose to be screened antenatally for the genetic condition Down's syndrome. However, the majority of these women are not given the test for Down's that has been recommended by the NHS. The recommended test is the most accurate and has other benefits, and should be readily available on the NHS to all women. Providing tests that are less accurate regrettably leads to more babies miscarrying and the risk of Down's being missed. This article aims to raise awareness of the problem and to consider the medicolegal issues.