NHS services are under pressure to manage costs and deliver the maximum benefit for our patients for every pound that we spend. To ensure that patients continue to benefit from genomic testing, we need to work together to ensure the right tests are performed for the right patients, first time.
When making genomic test referrals, we ask that you follow the below guidance:
- Check the latest version National Genomic Test Directory (NGTD), which is reviewed and updated regularly by a national panel of experts including clinicians and scientists. The last updates to the test directory were published on 10 July 2025 and these have been made available online (NHS England » National genomic test directory). These updates are to ensure that the tests we provide have the best possible clinical utility. Eligibility criteria for genomic tests change, so even if you repeatedly request the same tests, it is important that you check the NGTD regularly for updates. Tests that do not appear in the NGTD are not commissioned by NHSE and will not be delivered by the GLH laboratories.
- When making a request, be as explicit as possible that the request is compliant with the NGTD eligibility criteria and indicate on the request what the expected clinical utility of the result may be. The laboratory will not proceed with testing where this information is not given.
- Include the appropriate test code(s) from the NGTD, which helps us process your referrals more efficiently.
- Check the Central and South Genomics website, which features a host of information available for healthcare professionals, including information on the NGTD, genomic testing pathways, referral forms, and contact information for your local laboratory.
To support you in this, we will be doing the following:
- Updating our referral forms to make it easier to demonstrate the request’s compliance with the NGTD’s eligibility criteria
- Continuing to provide updates on our website and through our newsletter for the NGTD. To subscribe to our newsletter, please click here
- Continuing to run events and webinars to assist you in knowing when and how to test, as well as signposting to relevant materials. To see these, stay up to date with our website and subscribe to our newsletter