The translation and implementation of precision health research requires careful consideration of key ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI). Led by Dr Hilary Bowman-Smart, we apply an empirical bioethics approach, where mixed-methods empirical research informs ethical and philosophical analysis. Our aim is to provide applied insights with relevance to policy and practice.
Our research explores a range of areas including consent in genomics research, emerging technologies, data governance, and health equity. We also examine philosophical and conceptual questions about the nature of precision health.
Researchers
Current research projects
Experiences and perspectives of Australian healthcare professionals on formal diagnosis and machine learning models
The aim of this project is to understand current practices and experiences of Australian healthcare professionals with formal diagnosis, and explore their perspectives on the integration of emerging technologies such as machine learning models into the diagnostic process.
The Australian healthcare system is being impacted by an ageing population and increasing rates of multimorbidity. A formal diagnosis is often critical to access medication, subsidised treatment, or support services. However, there are significant inequities in access to diagnosis for rural and marginalised populations, and the labour and expense associated with formal diagnosis is considerable. Increases in population screening, self-diagnosis, and direct-to-consumer testing are also adding to the level of healthcare resources required for formal diagnosis. These factors also ultimately shape datasets used in epidemiological and precision health research.
Technologies like genomics and machine learning models are being integrated into the diagnostic process as potential solutions, but carry significant ethical challenges. Through a qualitative interview study, this project will provide critical insight into the experiences of healthcare professionals with current challenges in formal diagnosis, and inform the ethical integration of emerging technologies such as machine learning models into healthcare in Australia.
