Genomics in general practice: Generation Genome

Genetics (the functioning and composition of a single gene) and genomics (all genes and their inter-relationships identifying their combined influence on the growth and development of the organism) 1 are developing at a rapid rate. The impact this will have on general practice is uncertain. However, the recent publication of Dame Sally Davies's 2016 Chief Medical Officer's (CMO) report Generation Genome outlines how genomic medicine can be utilised and developed to become available to more patients within the NHS and the delivery of the genomic dream. 2 GPs may progressively be expected to consider genomics in their diagnosis and treatment decision making, and patients are likely to increasingly seek from GPs explanation for tests they have had in secondary care or from direct-to-consumer testing that they obtained privately.