Describe two issues that undermine the rights of clients in genetic- and genomic-related decision making and action.

As the use of genetic testing and genomics in health care increases, several concerns can affect clients’ rights to make decisions and take action. There are also issues of discrimination and lack of informed permission.

Informed consent is a major issue when it comes to making genetic or genomic decisions. Genetic testing can have unintended consequences for patients, including the risk of unexpected results and the chance of discrimination by insurance companies or employers. This issue could be resolved by ensuring that health care providers spend the necessary time explaining the risks and advantages of genetic tests to patients, and obtaining informed consent prior to testing. My role as a patient’s advocate would be to ensure that patients are able to understand all the information presented and to advocate on their behalf for them to make informed decisions about genetic testing.

Second, discrimination can be a problem that undermines the client’s rights in making decisions about genetics and genomics. Genetic information may be used to discriminate in employment or insurance. One way to resolve this problem is by advocating for policies to protect people from genetic discrimination. In the United States for example, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination (GINA), prohibits discrimination based on genetic data in health and employment insurance. My role as a patient’s advocate would be to make sure that patients know their rights, and advocate policies to protect them against genetic discrimination.

In conclusion, the lack of informed permission and discrimination may undermine client rights when it comes to making decisions and taking action in relation to genomics and genetics. In addressing this issue, healthcare providers and patient advocacy groups have a key role to play. They can ensure that clients are informed about genetic testing decisions and protected against discrimination.

References:

Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008(GINA). (n.d.). U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/statutes/genetic-information-nondiscrimination-act-2008-gina

Haga, S. B., O’Daniel, J. M., & Tindall, G. M. (2011). The professional perspective on informed consent: A qualitative study. Journal of personalized medication, 1(2). 135 – 146.