The UK government, Welsh and Scottish Governments and Northern Ireland Assembly have published the Genome UK: Shared commitments for UK wide implementation 2022-2025
The UK government, Welsh and Scottish Governments and Northern Ireland Assembly have today (Friday 18 march) agreed a series of commitments to improve outcomes for patients through better genomic testing and access to clinical trials.
The new Shared Commitments for the first time set out priority actions across the UK and are part of wider plans to improve healthcare through genomics - the study of genes and DNA
The Genome UK strategy announced in 2020 builds on innovative work already underway to create the most advanced genomic healthcare system in the world and deliver better healthcare at a lower cost, and forms part of the government’s wider commitment to reform healthcare and ensure the UK and the NHS remain at the forefront of cutting-edge treatment.
For example, using research to evaluate the use of whole genome sequencing in newborns to screen for rare genetic conditions and diagnose rare diseases earlier, enabling more tailored treatment sooner.
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid said: > > The pandemic has highlighted the importance of our booming UK life sciences sector and the potential it has to transform health and care services. > > By harnessing the power and innovation of genomic research, we can reduce diagnosis times and use cutting-edge treatments for some of the biggest health challenges we face, including cancer. > > By coming together and agreeing these new shared commitments, we will ensure patients across all four nations of the UK can benefit from these pioneering advancements and cement our place as a world leader in research and genomics.
Genome UK: Shared commitments for UK wide implementation 2022-2025 include working together to:
Building on the collaborative and innovative ways of working during the COVID-19 pandemic, these commitments aim to build on scientific successes, tackling future disease challenges and ensure patients can access more tailored treatment.
Minister for Innovation Lord Kamall said:
The commitments will also help cement the UK’s position as the leading global hub for life sciences.
Bringing the joint ambition and skills in this field together will help transform the use of genomics in healthcare and place the UK firmly at the forefront of developments in advancements in genomics, as well as demonstrating the UK is a valued partner for international collaboration and an attractive location for investment.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Humza Yousaf said:
Health Minister for Wales Eluned Morgan said:
Health Minister for Northern Ireland, Robin Swann:
Jennifer Harris, ABPI Director of Research Policy said:
David Atkins, UK BioIndustry Association representative on the National Genomics Board, said:
Nick Meade, Joint Interim Chief Executive at Genetic Alliance UK, said:
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