“I can tell you that I live in a country where genetic testing is regulated extensively: any pre-diagnostic or pre-symptomatic test can only be done by a few authorized (public) medical genetics centers, and must be followed by genetic counseling both before and after testing. These strict test-definitions actually include “innocent” tests like cyp-testing for pharmacogenetics. I can promise you that you do not want a situation like this. Over-regulation hinders progress and takes away personal freedom.”

I totally agree with you in this excellent aspect. We should be expanding the services not restricting them. But that expansion should be done responsibly, ethically, and with a duty to the consumer/patient to follow up results. If your provider/SNP company can’t guarantee accurate follow up, then you shouldn’t receive the testing. I can’t assume the patient/consumer to do that theirself (is that a word?). It is my responsibility as a physician to do that follow up. This is the HUGE difference between a healthcare provider and a company.

-Steve