HSJ Genomics Forum 2026: From Vision to Delivery — What It Means for the UK IPN
The HSJ Genomics Forum brought together leaders from across the NHS, academia, industry and patient communities to explore what it will take to deliver genomics at population scale. Across the keynote, population genomics session, industry discussion and closing reflections, a clear narrative emerged: the UK is moving from aspiration to implementation.
Genomics as Population Health Infrastructure
The keynote set out an ambitious direction: genomics will touch 50% of all healthcare interactions by 2035. This requires embedding genomics into neighbourhood teams, primary care and community services, and expanding beyond rare disease and cancer into cardiovascular disease, pharmacogenomics and polygenic risk.
Digital and Data Foundations
Speakers emphasised that genomics cannot scale without a unified genomic record, federated datasets, purpose‑based access controls and integration with prescribing and outcomes data. Automation will be essential to reduce manual work and improve productivity.
Workforce Transformation
The workforce is the biggest enabler and the biggest risk. Education must be embedded from undergraduate training to frontline practice. New roles, such as genomics champions in primary care, will be essential. Leadership development must sit alongside technical training.
Equity and Community Engagement
Population genomics must be built on trust. Many patients still lack digital access or literacy, and trusted relationships, midwives, GPs, health visitors, community groups will be critical. Outreach must be culturally competent and properly resourced.
Industry as a Strategic Partner
Industry leaders called for clearer Target Product Profiles, better procurement routes and aligned incentives. The NHS asked industry to be responsive, co‑invest and collaborate across the ecosystem.
A National Public Dialogue
As genomics begins to shape screening, prevention, treatment and personal responsibility, the public will need clarity, trust and support. This is a national conversation that must begin now.
Leadership Will Determine Success
The UK is uniquely positioned, with a national genomic medicine service, strong academic partnerships and a clear long‑term plan. But success will depend on leadership at every level, national, regional, neighbourhood and community.
What This Means for the UK‑IPN
The UK‑IPN has a critical role to play in shaping the next phase of genomics in the NHS:
- Convene ICSs, GMSAs, primary care and community leaders
- Champion workforce transformation and leadership development
- Strengthen NHS–industry collaboration
- Drive equity and community engagement
- Advocate for system‑wide value and commissioning reform
Genomics is no longer a specialist discipline but becoming a core part of how we deliver prevention, diagnosis and personalised care. The UK‑IPN will continue to lead, shape and support this transformation.