Ethical Priorities in for Clinical Uses of Genome Research

This study will focus on setting priorities in the screening, testing, counseling, and treatment of pre-symptomatic and contingent genetic conditions. Under the assumption that unlimited resources will not be immediately available for smoothly introducing genome research into the clinical arena, this project will develop an ethically sound set of priorities to guide this process. In order to structure the introduction of novel technologies in ways appropriate to individual and societal notions of health and well-being, The Hastings Center will develop, analyze, and assess strategies for responding to these practical concerns. We are asking: What clinical priorities, if any should be established from information arising out of genetic research? Should there be any relative priority among disease groups and population served? and What should be the relative priority of clinical resources directed toward genetics compared to other clinical endeavors? To provide a context for these efforts, the Center will also formulate a theory of the goals of medicine designed to accommodate changing understandings of genetic health and simultaneously point to priorities that can direct rational implementation of clinical services.