ABPI response to NHS England Genomics Strategy

NHS England has today published its first Genomics Strategy, alongside a genetic testing service. 

Commenting on today's publication, ABPI Chief Executive Richard Torbett said: 

“We are at the dawn of a medical revolution where our growing knowledge of genetics is poised to radically improve patient care and outcomes. To deliver on this promise, we need to get better at taking new scientific innovations from industry labs and into NHS clinics where they can start to benefit patients. This strategy is at the heart of making this happen.

“We are pleased to see the strategy’s focus on expanding genomic testing, upskilling the workforce, and supporting genomic research and the introduction of new technologies, which will be essential to supercharging patient access to the genomic medicine service and driving more cutting-edge scientific research.

“Our industry stands ready to work with NHS England and others to deliver this strategy and ensure as many people can access the latest cutting-edge diagnostics and medicines as soon as possible.”

The global genomics market has grown significantly over recent years and is estimated to grow by £10.75bn between 2021-2025. In the UK, genomics related activity has generated an estimated total turnover of £2.4bn over recent years. (1)

The ABPI will continue to work with NHS England, the Office for Life Sciences (OLS) and others to ensure NHS patients can benefit from the latest advances in genomic medicine and that the UK is a globally attractive destination for genomic research and investment.

In early November, the ABPI will publish its full report with additional recommendations on how to take this strategy further.

(1) From Bioscience and health technology sector statistics 2020