Genomics Australia Update
PTA participates in regular discussion and updates with Genomics Australia Commissioner Tiffany Boughtwood, and Director Renaye Lucchese.
Here is an update of the current state:
Genomics Australia is setting the vision for health genomics in Australia for the next 10 years. By 2035 Genomics Australia foresees genomics transforming healthcare to focus on prediction, prevention, early diagnosis and personalised management of targeted treatment.
They have developed 5-year and 10-year goals which speak to capacity building in the first 5 years and delivering a mature and trusted system by the 10-year horizon. By then genomics is predicted to be mainstream, informed, equitable, with good governance, secure and interoperable data management and a capable workforce.
Genomics Australia is working with MSAC to identify reimbursement pathways for genomic testing.
At this early-stage Genomics Australia is focussed on how the newly passed Insurance Anti-discrimination laws will be rolled out and how members of the public will view them. It is important that people can trust genomic testing and that our diverse population has a good understanding of the law and the benefits genomic testing can offer. Surveys will be conducted over the coming years that include elements of cognitive testing together with measuring the changes in people’s understanding of genomics over time. In essence, ensuring that as many people as possible develop an understand and confidence in the system.