COVER STORIES

10 Years After the Human Genome Project
Will the DTC Genetic Test Debate Shape the Future of Genomics?
By Bill Malone

As scientists celebrate the 10-year milestone for the genomic era, a controversial debate is being played out between direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing companies and federal regulators. In the past several years, these firms have pushed the genomic era right into the public’s hands via the Internet; however, the medical community remains highly skeptical of these new testing services.

Online Extra - Pharmacogenomics Faces Complex Hurdles
Warfarin Genotyping Illustrates Uncertainty

New Paradigms in Carrier and Prenatal Screening
How Soon Will They be in Use Clinically?
By Genna Rollins

So far few findings from the Human Genome Project have made their way into routine patient care. However, two research groups expect their carrier and prenatal genetic tests to be available by the end of this year, bringing some exciting advancements to the field. 

Online Extra - Additional References on Carrier and Prenatal Screening Studies   

SERIES ARTICLE

Platelet Function
Laboratory Methods for Evaluating Effectiveness of Anti-platelet Therapy
By Bradley Karon, MD, PhD and Elizabeth Jaben, MD

Whether or not clinical labs should measure the effects of aspirin and clopidogrel on platelet function has become a hot topic. Find out what tests are available to measure the effects of these antiplatelet medications.

NEWSBRIEF

PATIENT SAFETY FOCUS

Improving Patient Safety and Satisfaction via Patient Portals
Why It's Important to Provide Patients Access to their Electronic Medical Record
By Corinne R. Fantz, PhD

Patient portals incorporate information from all healthcare providers and bundle it in an easy-to-use format that boosts patients’ understanding of and confidence in the healthcare system. Find out why this trend is good news for clinical laboratories.

The 2011 Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goals
Why Laboratories Need to Pay Close Attention
By Teresa Darcy, MD, MM

Learn how the 2011 national patient safety goals set by the Joint Commission could affect your lab’s day-to-day operations.

LAB SAFETY CONCEPTS

The Paradox of Learning from Errors
Why Laboratories Should Embrace Errors as Learning Opportunities
By James S. Hernandez, MD, MS

All medical systems are laced with flaws and errors. Laboratorians should strive to confront errors as learning tools, thereby preventing their recurrence.

PROFILES