UK Launch Implementation Plan For Genomic Healthcare System

The plan focuses on expanding the diversity and reach of genomics in the UK as well as improving patient diagnosis, treatment and sickness prevention.

UK Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has today announced the launch of the Genome UK 2021-2022 implementation plan.

Following the Genome UK policy paper published in September 2020, the plan outlines 27 priority actions for the next year that will help the UK to advance its ambition to become “the world’s most advanced genomic healthcare ecosystem”.

WHY IT MATTERS

The plan outlines 27 commitments to further genomics in the UK, with 5 key goals:

• A partnership between Genomics England and NHS England/Improvement to enable faster and more comprehensive genomic testing of cancer
• Whole genome sequencing for patients with rare diseases
• Ensure diverse datasets through bespoke screening programmes so that everyone in the UK can benefit from genomic databases
• The advancement of Our Future Health research programme, supported by £79 million from UKRI
• Develop global standards and policies for sharing genomic health data securely

Genomics England projects that support the implementation of the Genome UK strategy will receive £17 million from the government, it was announced in April. This will be used in part to increase data from ethnic minorities in particular genomic cohorts, which could enhance diagnosis and treatment of those in the BAME community.