ELSIcon2022 Panel: Development of a Consortium on Best Practices Related to Genomics and Adoption

ELSIcon2022 • Panel Session 6 • June 1, 2022

Kelly East, Thomas May, Marsha Michie, Crystal Smith

The 'Genomics & Adoption Symposium'; a consensus project on best practices and appropriate uses of genetic testing for adopted persons, was held via teleconference in November 2021. Bringing together leading scholars in genetics, bioethics, adoption psychology, and representative stakeholders, the Symposium's working groups grappled with the appropriate timing of genetic tests, informed consent and genetic counseling, optimal gene panels, the role of ancestry testing and relative matching in adoptees' identity and well-being, and key social, legal and economic obstacles to genetic screening for adoptees. This panel will present the range of views within working groups and, when possible, any consensus reached, on the following: 1) Informed Consent, Return of Results, and Genetic Counseling; 2) Needs and Capabilities; 3) Ancestry Testing, Relative Matching, and Privacy, and 4) Economic and Social Obstacles. Following these brief presentations, the moderator will lead the audience and panel in a discussion of these topics to elicit additional perspectives and move toward a set of possible guidelines and best practices for the use of genetic testing in adopted persons.