Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications of Incorporating Genomic Information into Electronic Health Records

Overview

Journal Genet Med

Publisher Elsevier

Specialty Genetics

Date 2013 Sep 14

PMID 24030434

Citations 47

Authors

Ribhi Hazin

Kyle B Brothers

Bradley A Malin

Barbara A Koenig

Saskia C Sanderson

Mark A Rothstein

Marc S Williams

Ellen W Clayton

Iftikhar J Kullo

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The inclusion of genomic data in the electronic health record raises important ethical, legal, and social issues. In this article, we highlight these challenges and discuss potential solutions. We provide a brief background on the current state of electronic health records in the context of genomic medicine, discuss the importance of equitable access to genome-enabled electronic health records, and consider the potential use of electronic health records for improving genomic literacy in patients and providers. We highlight the importance of privacy, access, and security, and of determining which genomic information is included in the electronic health record. Finally, we discuss the challenges of reporting incidental findings, storing and reinterpreting genomic data, and nondocumentation and duty to warn family members at potential genetic risk.

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