Words by GOLD newsdesk
A series of commitments to improve outcomes for patients through better genomic testing and access to clinical trials have been agreed by the UK government and devolved administrations.
The new shared commitments set out priority actions for genomics initiatives across the UK, including faster cancer diagnosis; earlier detection of diseases; improved patient access to clinical trials; and better, more personalised treatment.
There will also be a renewed focus on research, championing innovative and cutting-edge industry partnerships in research and development to improve collaboration, maximise investment and feed back into the NHS to improve patient care.
Announcing the commitments, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Humza Yousaf, said: “The past two years showed us just a fraction of what can be achieved in this field and I am pleased that these shared commitments bring together our joint ambitions to deliver genomics healthcare.”
It is hoped that such plans will advance the government’s priorities to reform healthcare and cement the UK’s position as the leading global hub for life sciences.
“To ensure patients can benefit from these new breakthroughs, a coordinated effort across the UK is needed – which these plans demonstrate,” said Jennifer Harris, ABPI Director of Research Policy, welcoming the announcement. “We look forward to further collaboration between the government, the pharmaceutical industry and the research sector to harness the UK’s world-class genomics capability.”
The shared commitments build on the vision outlined in Genome UK in September 2020 and the commitments in the first implementation plan for 2021-2022 in May 2021. More detailed implementation plans for each UK country will be published by the end of 2022.
