Unlike genetics, which primarily focuses on our genes (just 2% of our DNA), genomics is the study of genome: the genes and all the DNA in between. This genomic information can help to diagnose a condition, determine the chance of developing a condition in later life, or even inform the correct type of treatment.

There is still a lot we don’t know about the genome. However, new technology and the NHS Genomic Medicine Service are bringing more insights and understanding to improve patient outcomes.
By becoming a tool in routine health care, genomics is likely to be encountered by a variety of health care professionals outside of specialist services. As a result, all  nurses will need to have a working understanding of what this means for their practice and implications for patients. How much knowledge is needed will depend on roles, clinical duties and the area of specialism.

Putting nurses at the heart of DNA testing and research

The Government has announced (August 2025) that nurses will play a leading role in new DNA testing and research services. Nurses across England will be trained as genomics champions in local communities to help patients get faster diagnoses and access life-saving treatment closer to home.

A new genomic population health service will be created in England, building on the existing NHS Genomic Medicine Service (GMS), to enhance the identification, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a range of conditions.

In the proposed service, nurses will help guide patients and family members through genetic testing that can identify the inherited causes of major conditions like heart disease, cancer and rare genetic disorders. They will also identify patients suitable for genomic testing, supporting them to access genomic counselling if needed.

Here at the RCN, we believe genomics has the potential to transform health and care, as well as help people to live healthier lives. 

Genomics Education Programme

NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme (GEP) was founded to deliver the learning and development necessary to enable current and future NHS workforce to harness the power of genomic medicine for patient benefit. Educating a diverse, 1.5 million-strong workforce requires a flexible, dynamic approach, drawing on best practice across health care, education and digital technology. The GEP has developed a range of educational resources for nurses from films, online courses, to more formal academic and training programs including the Master’s in Genomic Medicine, post graduate qualifications and CPD modules.