Mandate for Quality Genetic Services
Access to quality genetic services is critical to
comprehensive healthcare.
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- Healthcare providers refer individuals to appropriate
specialists, as needed, including those outside of their health insurance plan.
- Providers and payers consider the psychosocial, as well as
the medical, effects of a genetic condition – on both the individual and their
family – at each stage of life.
- Healthcare insurance plans reimburse diagnosis and treatment
for genetic conditions.
- Quality resources are available to assist individuals and
their families in understanding: family health history, signs/symptoms, screening/testing
options and their implications, diagnosis, treatment and long-term follow-up, if
needed.
- Healthcare providers, with experience in genetic services, are
available to all individuals.
- Providers, payers, and employers have policies and
procedures to ensure the appropriate use of genetic information.
- Information about genetic conditions is provided to
individuals and families in a culturally appropriate manner, which may include:
primary language, appropriate educational level, and various media.
- Information about genetic research and clinical trials is
available to the affected individuals and integrated into clinical practice
when appropriate.
- Referrals to support groups and resources are offered at
regular office visits.
- Genetic information, resources and services are integrated in home-based, outpatient, and hospital care for individuals across the lifespan.
Approved by Board of Directors, March 2001
