Pros And Cons Of Direct-To-Consumer Testing

Looking at the different approaches of these two countires we can see how different methods can be applied concerning the genetics debate. The countries discussed could be said to stand on opposite sides of the debate, depending on whether or not you believe DTC testing is a practice of medicine. Because the DTC testing packages claim to be just a source of information, it is hard to prove them to be a practice of medicine. For this reason we will say Belgium accepts direct-to-consumer testing without the use of a physician, while France strictly prohibits it. Lastly, we will explore the argument behind direct-to-consumer testing and why it is a consumers right to know information about their health status without healthcare intermediaries.

As stated above there are two approaches that can be used when talking about genetic testing. One approach is the utilitarian approach that believes the benefit of society as a whole is more important than an individual. DTC tests allow more people to be tested, which if they take the right steps afterwards could protect the society from a disease presented by an individual. Or the safe route for the society would be for people to do genetic testing at the discretion of a physician to assure they are making well informed decisions. The libertarian approach is another method that can be used. This puts the needs of the individual above the needs of the society as a whole. This method would support genetic testing either way, because both methods provide health information for the individual. The DTC approach gives the person more freedom throughout the testing process and allows them to maintain privacy if they choose

I agree with the concept that it is our fundamental right to have access to our health information. I do not see an issue with allowing genetic to be done without the discretion of a physician. There have been a lot of arguments from both sides, but when it comes down to it, regulation eliminates the opportunity to choose to include a physician or not. If a person prefers to do DTC testing and receive information that is arguably not as valid, that is up to them. They still have the option of seeing a healthcare professional after receiving results or seeing a genetic counselor. For the people who believe testing should only be done through a physician, they can make sure to do it that way. Just because some people do not prefer the DTC method, does not mean it needs to be eliminated all together. It all comes down to the fundamental right to know information about your health and how DTC testing protects autonomy and