Date of Award
5-2014
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Legacy Department
Healthcare Genetics
Committee Chair/Advisor
Eggert, Julia A
Committee Member
Crandall, Lee A
Committee Member
Holaday, Bonnie
Committee Member
Parker, Veronica
Abstract
Genetic advancements during the latter part of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century have presented individuals, the medical community, and legislators at state and federal levels, with numerous genetic discrimination predicaments. Oncology nurses need to be knowledgeable about GINA (The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008) and its applications to clinical practice. GINA is the first federal law passed to protect United States' citizens with inherited disorders from being treated unfairly due to their genetic make-up. Understanding the legislation known as GINA, including how it modifies existing federal laws governing health insurance coverage and employment discrimination, can assist oncology nurses in providing important education and advocating for their patients and extended families. Federal agencies that govern and enforce GINA's provisions will be identified. Case situations are included to demonstrate how to apply information concerning GINA to the oncology patient/family considering or having already completed genetic testing. Concerns about missing elements in GINA and their impact will also be addressed, so oncology nurses can offer colleagues and patients an explanation of the pros and cons of the new law. Since GINA was completely enacted in 2009; oncology nurses need to be aware of GINA's provisions and its associated shortcomings in order to assist their patients and the families to make informed decisions regarding genetic testing. Privacy of genetic information is a timely issue, though not easy to understand, so provisions of GINA need to addressed and carefully evaluated.
Recommended Citation
Steck, Mary, "Assessing Awareness of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) among Nurse Practitioners" (2014). All Dissertations. 1379.
https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/all_dissertations/1379