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.
At Central and South Genomics, we’re committed to helping you navigate these changes, requests tests in a timely and effective manner, and support your patients. We’ve developed a programme of wraparound support for clinicians, including a series of webinars, clear and concise essential updates via our website, as well as educational materials to take away and consult in your own 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 latest updates to the rare disease and cancer test directories 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.
If you’ve got any questions, you can contact us directly; details for the GMSA, GLH and all laboratories and clinical genetics services can be found here.