Regulating the Commercial Development of Genetic Testing in the UK: Problems, Possibilities and Policy

Abstract

Genetic testing promises to revolutionize health care. This article describes the development of genetic testing in the UK and the first attempts to commercially exploit this technology. It then examines the way in which testing has been governed by both the medical profession and the state, and analyses the main unresolved issues for public policy. We argue that the full range of social policy issues raised by genetic testing can only be understood by including the activities of firms in the analysis. Furthermore, attention needs to be paid to the way in which a series of distinct markets for genetic testing is being constructed and the role that public policy is playing in shaping these technologies, applications and markets. Finally, recommendations for policy and some reflections on the relationship between social policy and technical change are offered.