The government launched a two-year pilot of a genomic testing programme on Wednesday.
Photo: RNZ / Adam Burns
Local genomic testing will cut wait times and uncertainty for cancer patients, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
The government launched a two-year pilot of a genomic testing programme on Wednesday, allowing samples to be analysed locally.
Health New Zealand would partner with global genomics company Illumina to deliver the testing, which would be performed at Christchurch’s Canterbury Health Laboratories.
Genome sequencing models would be used to diagnose diseases and refine treatment for those with cancer and rare diseases.
Two models would be part of the trial, including whole genome sequencing to help diagnose rare and inherited disorders, and comprehensive genomic profiling.
Brown said the programme could become permanent.
“Today is a significant day for people needing genomic sequencing for certain cancers and rare disorders. Too many Kiwis are left waiting for answers because their genomic tests are sent overseas, delays that can affect treatment decisions or prolong years of uncertainty,” he said.
“This two-year pilot will bring testing home, reducing wait times at one of the most stressful points in a patient’s life and supporting our health targets so cancer patients can receive treatment sooner and people spend less time waiting for specialist care.”
Health Minister Simeon Brown said the programme could become permanent.
Photo: RNZ / Adam Burns
The trial would also improve the skills of local clinicians in genomic medicine and improve their diagnostic capability, Brown said.
“New Zealand currently spends more than $4 million each year sending over 4000 genomic tests overseas. This pilot will process more than 6000 samples over two years, including establishing new tests and consolidating existing workflows.
“By the end of the pilot, around half of tests currently sent offshore are expected to be completed in New Zealand.”
The programme could save about $1 million in operational savings each year if it were implemented permanently, Brown said.
It would include testing for rare disorders across a range of groups, including metabolic, connective tissue, eye, hearing, and renal conditions.
Photo: RNZ / Adam Burns
The pilot would assess workforce readiness, operational efficiency and healthcare systems needed to support genomic data management services, Brown said.
“Today’s announcement comes during Rare Disorders Month, which highlights the importance of timely diagnosis for the thousands of New Zealanders living with rare conditions. I want to acknowledge everyone living with, and supporting those affected by, a rare disorder,” he said.
“Our government is focused on putting patients at the centre of the health system. This pilot is about getting Kiwis answers faster and building a genomics testing service New Zealand can be proud of.”
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