NHS North West Genomic Medicine Service Alliance (NW GMSA)

The NW GMSA, set up in January 2021, is one of seven genomic medicine alliances in England. It works with NHS teams, Integrated Care Systems, pathology networks, and cancer alliances to bring genomics into routine healthcare. Its aim is to ensure everyone in the North West has access to high-quality genomic services, no matter where they live. 

The Alliance is also the lead for the national Pharmacogenomics and Medicines Optimisation Network of Excellence, and co-lead for the Rare and Inherited Disease and Circulating tumour biomarker networks.  

NHS North West Genomic Laboratory Hub (NW GLH)

The NW GLH is part of a national network of seven Genomic Laboratory Hubs. Led by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, it provides standardised and high-quality genomic testing for conditions like rare diseases and cancer. The region has two laboratory hubs, based in Liverpool and Manchester, that work together to deliver these vital services.  https://mft.nhs.uk/nwglh/

Clinical Genetic Services

Clinical Genetic Services in the North West are provided by teams of clinical geneticists and genetic counsellors. These experts diagnose genetic conditions and help patients understand inherited risks. They also provide personalised care plans and support for families.

Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine (MCGM): Based at St Mary’s Hospital in Manchester and Liverpool Women's Hospital in Liverpool (Liverpool Centre for Genomic Medicine or LCGM)  the MCGM (also known as "Mangen") and the LCGM, as part of the NHS North West Genomic Laboratory Hub (NW GLH) provide a full range of genomic services to a population of 5.7 million people across the North West.

The regional clinical genetic service's team includes clinical geneticists, genetic counsellors, nurses, and dietitians.

MCGM also runs specialist clinics for conditions like cancer genetics, neurogenetics, and inherited metabolic disorders. The Willink Metabolic Unit, part of MCGM, is well-known for its work with children who have rare metabolic conditions.

https://www.mangen.co.uk/

https://www.liverpoolwomens.nhs.uk/our-services/liverpool-centre-for-genomic-medicine-lcgm/

Partnerships Across the Region

Collaboration is key to making genomics part of routine healthcare. The NW GMSA and NW GLH work with many organisations to enhance services:

  • Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT): A leader in delivering genomic testing and diagnostics. https://www.mft.nhs.uk
  • Genomics England: Partnering on national projects like the 100,000 Genomes Project to improve understanding of rare diseases and cancers. https://www.genomicsengland.co.uk/ 
  • Manchester Rare Conditions Centre: A hub for care and research in rare conditions, offering advanced diagnostics and treatments using genomics. https://www.mrcc.org.uk/

  • Pathology Alliances: Pathology services are integral to genomic medicine, providing essential diagnostic and testing capabilities. The North West Genomic Medicine Service Alliance (NW GMSA) has established strong partnerships with regional pathology services to embed genomics into routine healthcare. These collaborations ensure that genomic testing is seamlessly integrated into patient care pathways, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalisation. 

  • Primary Care Networks (PCNs): Primary care professionals, including General Practitioners (GPs), play a crucial role in the early identification of patients who may benefit from genomic testing. The Alliance supports the primary care workforce by providing education and training resources to empower GPs to incorporate genomic medicine into their clinical practice. This initiative aims to enhance GPs' confidence in delivering personalised care and effectively communicating genomic information to patients.

Education, Research, and Innovation

The North West is also a hub for genomic research, education, and innovation:

  1. University of Manchester: A leading institution for genomic research and training.
  2. Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs): Two AHSNs in the region help speed up the adoption of genomics in healthcare:
    • Health Innovation Manchester (HInM): Covers Greater Manchester and East Cheshire, connecting health, academia, and industry. https://healthinnovationmanchester.com/
    • Innovation Agency (North West Coast AHSN): Focuses on South Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside, and Cheshire, improving care and tackling health inequalities. https://www.healthinnovationnwc.nhs.uk/
  3. NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC): Translates discoveries in genomics into clinical care, ensuring patients benefit from the latest advancements. https://www.manchesterbrc.nihr.ac.uk/

Involving Patients and the Public

Listening to patients and the public is a key part of how genomic services are developed. The Patient and Public Voice Panel (PPVP) helps ensure services meet the needs of all communities across the region.

From cutting-edge research to everyday healthcare, genomic medicine in the North West is transforming lives. Through collaboration, innovation, and a focus on patients, the region is ensuring that everyone can benefit from the power of genomics.