Nurses to lead new genomic services, Westminster government announces

Nursing staff are increasingly being recognised for their expertise, skills and leadership, as the Westminster government announces nurses will play a leading role in new DNA testing and research services, the RCN says.

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, the government announced.

Genomics is the study of the whole genome, which comprises all the genetic information of an individual. This information can help to support diagnosis of a health condition, predict the likelihood of developing a condition in later life, and inform treatment pathways.

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.

The RCN believes genomics has the potential to transform health and care, as well as outcomes for patients.

Responding to the announcement, RCN Executive Director for England Patricia Marquis said this shows what nurses are capable of, and the expert level that they're working to.

“New and innovative treatments will be part of all our lives, and the nursing profession is already playing a leading role.

“Nursing staff deliver the vast majority of care and are best placed to lead innovation and shape the future use of genomics. Today’s announcement shows how nursing staff are increasingly being recognised for their expertise, skills and leadership.

“Investing in training to allow nursing staff to develop their skills will now be crucial to delivering these advances in care. That will show just how vital the nursing workforce is to modernising services," said Patricia.

The government has also pledged to provide enhanced government funding and tailored career development to empower nurses to lead and deliver innovative health and care research into a range of conditions.

Illustration by Andrea Ucini