Effective and early genetic diagnosis requires statutory changes

The meeting, led by Council Chairman Professor Piotr Czauderna, was attended by Minister Grazyna Ignaczak-Bandych, head of the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland, and Deputy Health Minister Maciej Miłkowski, among others.

Molecular testing involves detecting mutations at the level of the DNA molecule using genetic material from the patient. Prof. Anna Latos-Bieleńska, national consultant in clinical genetics and Chairwoman of the Council on Rare Diseases, stressed that genetic diagnostics is most applicable to rare and cancerous diseases. Molecular testing demonstrates a high level of medical and economic impact, especially when used at an early stage of a disease or before its onset. The cost of genetic diagnostics, especially in rare genomic diseases, can be much lower than the cost of traditional diagnostics.

The development of genetics in Poland accelerated after the implementation of two programs: The 2020 National Oncology Strategy, developed through a legislative initiative by the President of Poland, and the 2022 Plan for Rare Diseases. The introduction of effective and early genetic diagnostics in Poland requires, according to experts, among other things: statutory changes, regular replenishment of the list of reimbursed genetic tests, certification of genetic laboratories and continuous training of specialized personnel. These activities require adequate funding, and one of its sources is becoming the Medical Fund, established on the initiative of the President of Poland.

Source: President.co.uk