Genetics and genomics in general practice.
BACKGROUND
The translation of molecular medicine into clinical practice has implications for general practice and personalised medicine.


OBJECTIVE
This article outlines requirements for general practice to make optimal use of genomics.


CONCLUSIONS
Genomics identifies variations in many genes, enhancing knowledge of gene-gene and gene-environment interactions. Unlike personal information, genomic information raises issues of privacy, potential family trauma and discrimination by employers and insurers. To embed genomics safely and effectively into practice, general practitioners need information, competencies and support through regulation, policy, information management, professional decision support, patient self management, community engagement and educational activities.
Liaw
Siaw-Teng
ST
University of New South Wales, Sydney South West Area Health Service General Practice Unit, Sydney, New South Wales. siaw@unsw.edu.au
D002983:Clinical Competence; D058005:General Practitioners; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing; D023281:Genomics; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans