Genetics Modules
This collection of learning modules addresses some ethical issues likely to be encountered by biomedical engineers working in the field of genetics or genetic engineering. Although the quantity of ethical issues raised by the recent advances in the genetics field is vast, the four granules comprising this module provide an introduction to several prominent difficulties ranging from genetic testing and discrimination to patient care to genetic modification of foods. These modules are designed to be used either as an ordered series or individually for shorter discussions.
Genetic Testing and Information 1 - Patient and Couseling
Would you want to know if you had a severe genetic condition that may never show a symptom? Would your family members want to know that they might also be carriers? This module examines the sensitive nature of genetic information and how lives might be altered by careless transfer or withholding of knowledge about individuals' genetic makeup.
Genetic Testing and Information 2 - Provider
What would your employer or your insurance company do if they had easy access to your genetic makeup? Do you think people without health insurance deserve inexpensive access to genetic testing? This module examines the increasing availability of genetic testing and associated need for confidentiality and counseling.
Acquisition and Ownership of Genetic Material
Who owns information about a certain plant or animal species' genome? Is it the person who mapped the gene? The country where the species grows? Can the genome be patented and used for profit? This module examines ownership rights to valuable genetic information.
Selective Genetic Therapy
Should patients exhibiting symptoms of well-defined genetic diseases have different rights than patients with the same symptoms due to less-understood conditions? Should expensive genetic-based therapies be available to those who have many other options for treatment? This module explores patient care and rights in the new age of ubiquitous genetic therapies and genetic knowledge.
Final Challenge
If you have completed all four of the genetics modules, try out the final genetics challenge to test you ability to solve ethical dilemmas associated with the field.