Optimising national genomics interoperability to improve care, research and system efficiency

The UK’s genomic ecosystem has grown rapidly, but the underlying processes and systems have not kept pace. Ordering genomic tests, accessing results and sharing data across regions relied on fragmented workflows, inconsistent data standards and, in many cases, paper-based or static digital artefacts.

These limitations created variation between regions, delays in test ordering and reporting, and barriers to using genomic data effectively for direct care and research. Without a coherent national approach, it was difficult to ensure consistent data quality, enable interoperability or scale genomic services safely.

NHS-led programmes needed a way to modernise how genomic data is ordered, governed and accessed, while maintaining strong information governance and supporting future expansion.

Answer Digital partnered with NHS-led initiatives to design and deliver the foundations for a unified national genomics capability.

Our work spans three closely connected national services. Order Management focuses on replacing paper-based test ordering with a digital service that enables electronic requests, end-to-end tracking and consistent data capture.

The Digital Genomic Test Service replaces static spreadsheets and documents with a governed, version-controlled data service that acts as a single source of truth for genomic tests and exposes this information for reuse by digital systems.

In parallel, we are supporting the development of the Unified Genomic Record, designed to enable secure, centralised access to patient genomic data for direct care and approved research. Across all three services, we have focused on standardisation, governance and interoperability to ensure solutions work together as part of a coherent national ecosystem.

This work has laid the foundations for a more integrated and scalable genomics infrastructure across the NHS.

Digital ordering will streamline previously manual workflows, reducing delays, errors and administrative burden across regions. Standardised data models and governed services improve interoperability, enabling genomic information to be shared and reused safely across the Genomics Medicine Service.

For clinicians, access to more complete and consistent genomic data supports more accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment and proactive care. For researchers, the ability to access standardised genomic datasets at scale accelerates discovery and improves matching of patients to clinical trials.

By reducing duplication of tests and streamlining workflows, the programmes also create opportunities for significant efficiency and resource savings, supporting better outcomes for patients and the wider system.