The governments of the UK have agreed a series of commitments to improve outcomes for patients through better genomic testing and access to clinical trials.

For the first time, the new Shared Commitments set out priority actions across the UK and are part of wider plans to improve healthcare through genomics - the study of genes and DNA.

Announced in 2020, the Genome UK strategy builds on innovative work already underway to create the most advanced genomic healthcare system in the world and deliver better healthcare at a lower cost, and forms part of the government’s wider commitment to reform healthcare and ensure the UK and the NHS remain at the forefront of cutting-edge treatment.

Genome UK: Shared commitments for UK wide implementation 2022-2025 include working together to: improve cancer diagnosis and treatment; provide better early detection of disease by establishing a clear, evidence-based approach to Newborn Genome Sequencing; and build on the successful UK-wide partnership in sequencing of coronavirus to strengthen collaboration on sequencing of other diseases.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “The pandemic has highlighted the importance of our booming UK life sciences sector and the potential it has to transform health and care services. By harnessing the power and innovation of genomic research, we can reduce diagnosis times and use cutting-edge treatments for some of the biggest health challenges we face, including cancer.

“By coming together and agreeing these new shared commitments, we will ensure patients across all four nations of the UK can benefit from these pioneering advancements and cement our place as a world leader in research and genomics.”