Consent and confidentiality in clinical genetic practice: guidance on genetic testing and sharing genetic information.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form (including photocopying or storing it in any medium by electronic means and whether or not transiently or incidentally to some other use of this publication) without the written permission of the copyright owners. Applications for the copyright owners' written permission to reproduce any part of this publication should be addressed to the Royal College of Physicians. The exceptions to the above are the flowcharts on pp 32–4, which may be photocopied for clinical use. Contents Foreword vi The distinctive nature of consent in genetic practice vi Introduction to the revised version vii Summary of recommendations viii Definitions ix 1 Fundamentals of clinical genetic practice 1 Box 1: Some practical aspects of clinical genetic practice 2 2 Issues of confidentiality in clinical genetic practice 4 3 Issues of consent in clinical genetic practice 5 Box 2: Issues to be discussed during the consent process 5 3.1 Enabling clinicians from a range of backgrounds to take consent 6 Clinical scenario 1 6 Clinical scenario 2 7 Box 3: Laboratory request forms 7 3.2 Ensuring that colleagues involved in the care of the patient are kept informed 7