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Genetic information and the unexamined life

BMJ 2001; 322 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.322.7293.1070 (Published 28 April 2001) Cite this as: BMJ 2001;322:1070
  1. John Harris, Sir David Alliance professor of bioethics at the Institute of Medicine
  1. Law, and Bioethics, University of Manchester

    There is no right to genetic information nor to access to particular tests. Doctors may need persuading that particular tests are in patients' best interests, and usually such tests are for serious genetic conditions of which there is an established family history. Lack of resources may limit access, but even so called “over-the-counter” or postal tests require licences. In the United Kingdom, the provision of tests has to comply with various codes of practice and guidance, issued by …

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