Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing in New Zealand

Abstract

This paper examines the direct-to-consumer genetic testing industry against the background of the current regulatory framework in New Zealand. Direct-to-consumer genetic testing refers to genetic testing services sold directly to consumers mainly via the Internet without the involvement of health care professionals. This paper focuses on disease predisposition genetic tests that calculate a personal risk to develop a disease based on genetic information.

After an analysis of the peculiarities of DTC genetic testing services, the paper contrasts the main arguments for no further state intervention with the concerns about DTC genetic testing that call for more governmental oversight. The main part of the paper argues that the current partial coverage of the existing regulatory framework in New Zealand is insufficient. The paper presents possible recommendations for legislative reform, taking into account recently released details regarding a new Therapeutic products Bill.