Genetic testing and the EU commission

The Commission in its 3rd progress report on the implementation of the European Strategy on Life Science and Biotechnology published on 29.6 2005 (COM(2005) 286 final), proposed the following actions:

Commission and Member States

• To enhance an EU-wide exchange of information on best practice and cooperation on the development and use of genetic testing through the open method of coordination. In particular, an evaluation of the clinical validity/utility of genetic tests and the establishment of a referral system at EU level for genetic testing of rare and complex diseases will be addressed in 2005- 2006
• To take whatever action appropriate or required, as arising from the coordination

The Commission will

• Launch an initiative on the protection of workers' personal data in the employment context, taking account of the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies Opinion No 18 "Ethical Aspects of Genetic Testing in the Workplace". The initiative will also address the processing of genetic data,
• Analyse the possibility of setting standards on genetic testing under Article 152 or 153 of the Treaty and the appropriate legal instrument.
• Analyse the Directive 98/79/EC on in vitro diagnostic medical devices in the context of genetic testing and in particular regarding quality and performance assurance of genetic test devices.
• Launch a mapping and networking exercise on public health aspects of genetic testing.