Description
During this module, you will consider issues of human confidentiality, autonomy, disclosure, informed consent and natural justice within an ethical framework. The course explores the impact of genomic technologies on individual lives and those of demographic and ethnic groups. There will also be an opportunity to discuss the social implications of the availability of genetic testing and screening, especially in the context of reproductive technologies.
Learn from leading experts in genomics about:
- The impact of genomic testing on individuals, taking into account demographic and ethnic differences.
- Social implications of genetic testing and screening, particularly in the context of human reproduction.
- A legal framework for the patenting of genetic information as well as the use of genetic data for research, diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
- Obtaining ethical approval for research projects.
- Specific issues in clinical pathways.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this module you will be able to:
- Defend the ethical principles of autonomy, justice and fairness, and apply these to key practical issues such as confidentiality, disclosure and informed consent in scenarios within genomic medicine.
- Critically evaluate the challenges of emerging genomic technologies on society and its values.
- Analyse the current legal framework within which genomic medicine is practised in the UK.
- Evaluate the potential ethical, legal and social impact of genomic medical advances in a clinical pathway.
- Critically appraise the potential impact of genetic databases on human autonomy, healthcare provision and discrimination.
- Identify clinical pathways in your own specialty or field of practice where the use of genomic investigation or techniques may be beneficial to patients, and be able to present a balanced view taking into account the benefits and potential burdens.
- Know the differences in legal frameworks within which genomic medicine is practised in Europe, USA and globally.
- Understand the processes of obtaining ethical approval for research projects, the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and specific issues in clinical pathways.
Funding rules
Funding covers course fees only and is limited to NHS healthcare professionals working in England from the full range of professional backgrounds and groups (such as medicine, nursing, healthcare scientists and technologists). For those interested in CPPD modules, university entry requirements may include criteria around existing understanding and minimum English language requirements.
The Genomics Education Programme provides limited funding to the Universities listed below. Please check with your preferred university to obtain details of the programme modules, entry criteria and the process for funding. See below for the key steps in the application process.
FAQs
The NHS trust that employs me is not part of a designated Genomic Medicine Centre. Can I still apply for funding?
I have been awarded funding and started the programme, but I am unable to complete. What are my options?
Funding is awarded for the period specified in the application form and there is no automatic ability to defer completion of the programme. You should speak to your university in the first instance about your situation and also contact the Genomics Education Programme (GEP) team regarding funding.
You may choose to reduce the workload of your programme by switching from, for example, a full Master’s degree to a diploma or certificate. Again, you would need to contact your course provider and the GEP.
How much study time is required to undertake this programme?
Study time will vary across the course providers. You are advised to visit your preferred university’s website for more information or to contact the relevant course lead. Most modules involve around 5 days of face-to-face teaching, followed by 2-4 weeks of independent study and assessment preparation.
A distance learning option is provided at Queen Mary University of London.
Can I build up my CPPD modules to a full Master’s, PGDip or PGCert qualification?
The process and ability to do this will be dependent on your preferred university and you should contact them to discuss available options.
I am eligible but have been refused a commissioned place – why?
This may be due to the following potential reasons:
- The university you have applied to has used up all its commissioned allocations.
- The total number of available national commissions have been fully allocated.
- We are now applying controls to the commissioned places based on healthcare profession roles to help ensure equitable access across professions on a national scale.
I am not eligible for a HEE-funded place – can I self-fund?
This should be discussed with your preferred university.
I work for an organisation that provides services to the NHS – am I eligible to apply?
Yes – please provide details of your organisation and its services for the NHS when you apply to your preferred university.
