title: How can genetic tests be evaluated for clinical use? Experience of the UK Genetic Testing Network.
abstract: The UK Department of Health supported the establishment of the UK Genetic Testing Network (UKGTN) in 2002. The UKGTN is a collaborative network of NHS molecular genetic laboratories that offer tests for human single gene germ-line disorders. Its objective is to provide high quality and equitable services for patients and their families who require genetic advice, diagnosis and management. The UKGTN has developed a 'Gene Dossier' process to evaluate genetic tests and recommend which tests will be provided by the National Health Service. This paper describes the UKGTN organisation and the 'Gene Dossier' process. A brief review of the UKGTN genetic test evaluation experience is presented.
authors.affiliation: Public Health Genetics Unit, Cambridge, UK. mark.kroese@srl.cam.ac.uk
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kroese
authors.forename: Ron L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Zimmern
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Farndon
authors.forename: Fiona
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Stewart
authors.forename: Joanne
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Whittaker
mesh_terms: D019058:Community Networks; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006113:United Kingdom