Information and Knowledge Management

Read the following articles and consider the ethical and legal implications of DNA testing:

Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Assessing Genetic Risks; Andrews LB, Fullarton JE, Holtzman NA, et al., editors. Assessing Genetic Risks: Implications for Health and Social Policy. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1994. 8, Social, Legal, and Ethical Implications of Genetic Testing. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK236044/

Each new genetic test that is developed raises serious issues for medicine, public health, and social policy regarding the circumstances under which the test should be used, how the test is implemented, and what uses are made of its results. Should people be allowed to choose or refuse the test, or should it be mandatory, as newborn screening is in some states? Should people be able to control access to the results of their tests? If test results are released to third parties such as employers or insurers, what protections should be in place to ensure that people are not treated unfairly because of their genotype?

Lowrey, Kerri. (2004). Legal and ethical issues in cancer genetics nursing. Seminars in oncology nursing. 20. 203-8. 10.1053/j.soncn.2004.04.007. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/8226060_Legal_and_ethical_issues_in_cancer_genetics_nursing

“There are many potential interests at stake for patients considering genetic testing for susceptibility to cancer and a number of legal protections for patients against genetic discrimination. Nurses and physicians who offer genetic testing should be aware of applicable laws in their states, and remain cognizant of evolving ethical principles that can guide their practice.”