The Ethical Principles Every Geneticist Needs to Know OnDemand-The Ethical Principles Every Geneticist Needs to Know

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar "Ethical Principles Every Geneticist Needs to Know" was hosted by Tanya Epley and featured Dr. Bimal Choudhury and Dr. Malia Fullerton, who are experts in medical genetics and bioethics. The session, part of the ACMG Genetics Academy, discussed key ethical principles relevant to geneticists, focusing on three main cases. Dr. Choudhury's case dealt with issues of consent and the best interests of minors undergoing genetic testing. He emphasized the complexities around autonomy, beneficence, and non-maleficence, noting that minors can't legally consent, and illustrated how differing views between parents and children need sensitive handling. Dr. Fullerton discussed the implications of unexpected genetic findings and their reclassification, underscoring the importance of informed consent and managing patient expectations. The presentation highlighted concerns about secondary findings during genetic testing and emphasized robust pre-test counseling and the careful management of post-test outcomes. Dr. Epley's case focused on privacy and confidentiality, especially when genetic information affects family members. She addressed the tension between respecting patient confidentiality and the ethical imperative to warn family members of potential genetic risks, delving into legal precedents such as the Safer vs. Estate of Pack and Pate vs. Threlkel cases. Participants were encouraged to consider the nuances of these legal cases, as well as the implications of maintaining or breaching confidentiality under HIPAA regulations. The session was interactive, with participant questions addressing practical challenges such as genetic information in electronic health records, and regulatory considerations when counseling and testing are performed remotely.

Keywords

Ethical Principles

Geneticists

Medical Genetics

Bioethics

Informed Consent

Genetic Testing

Patient Confidentiality

Secondary Findings

Genetic Counseling

HIPAA Regulations