Public Service Announcement about Patient Data Privacy in Pharmacogenomics

The scientific developments in pharmacogenomics in recent years have been enormous, and this has helped advance the course of humanity in many ways. Physicians now better understand why specific individuals with genetic variations respond or do not respond to particular therapeutics hence improving public healthcare. Genomic medicine is not seen as the driver of scientific research that would help humanity solve some of the complex healthcare problems. Although advancements in pharmacogenomics have largely received applauses, there is significant concern on the potential to lead to the bridge of privacy for thousand or millions of people. Continued public approval on genomic medicine will largely rest on the assurances made by researchers and institutions to guarantee the confidentiality of those involved in clinical trials of new drugs and evidence that there will be improved healthcare outcomes.

Privacy in the United States is concerned a compassionate and legal matter, and any breaches could result in lawsuits and expensive settlements. Some concerns disclosing genetic data would result in what has been referred to as ‘genetic discrimination.’ This arises if people who have undergone pharmacogenomics testing get different treatments based on their genetic information. Under the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008, every American is protected against any form of genetic discrimination. Don’t let misinformation or lack of knowledge prevent you from benefiting from advancements in pharmacogenomics, talk to your healthcare provider and inquire about your data privacy.