July 29, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. — Expanded Carrier Screening (Day 1)
July 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. — Expanded Carrier Screening Policy Discussion (Day 2)
Genetic screening is a prime example of translating advances in human genomics research into an intervention with a direct benefit to public health. A variety of methods are available to screen adults, fetuses, and newborns — all with a goal of gaining insight into the risk posed by certain heritable conditions.
Expanded carrier screening (ECS) can help women make informed decisions about their reproductive health and pregnancy management, as well as improve maternal and fetal outcomes by allowing preparation to care for children who may be affected by a genetic disorder. However, challenges with integrating research and development advances into health care and regulatory systems have left gaps in preventive care for patients.
As part of our Genetic Screening Program, SWHR is convening an interdisciplinary working group of health care providers, medical professional society leaders, patients/patient advocates, policy experts, and diagnostic company scientists for a closed roundtable meeting on July 29-30 to discuss how to eliminate barriers to access and reduce health disparities related to ECS.
