Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Share by Email
Print
In their updated position statement regarding direct access genetic testing, the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) stated that clinically meaningful tests could benefit patients and consumers and should be made available directly to the public only if certain conditions are met.
The AMP reviewed the current direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing landscape for several months before issuing amendments on the organization’s position. The Direct Access Genetic Testing statement addresses four categories of genetic testing:
- Clinically meaningful
- Business interest
- Ancestry
- Recreational/novelty
RELATED: Can a Genetic Test Predict Suicide Risk?
The AMP supports high-quality DTC testing if the genetic information can motivate patients to either make lifestyle changes or get professional care for their benefit; the position statement details the conditions that DTC services should meet in providing this information.
The AMP, however, does oppose direct access to genetic tests that are conducted for the purpose of selling additional health-related products or services and do not provide clinically meaningful or actionable information. The AMP is keeping a neutral position on recreational or novelty genetic testing, such as ancestry testing, as these normally do not report health data.
For more information visit AMP.org.
