Towards the routine use of genome-based testing in Canada’s largest regions: An update to the State of Readiness Progress Report

Genomic medicine has the potential to improve population health and patient outcomes, but its adoption continues to challenge Canadian health systems due to its complexity and reliance on coordinated decision-making, specialized expertise, and enabling system conditions.

To support a future in which genetic and genomic testing is widely adopted, the 2026 State of Readiness for the Consideration and Adoption of Genomic Medicine Progress Report provides a pan-Canadian assessment of whether health systems have the conditions needed to consider and implement these tests. The report highlights progress made since 2023, particularly in Ontario and Nova Scotia, and identifies persistent gaps that need to be addressed to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery.

This progress report suggests that Canada’s major healthcare regions are moving closer to a state of readiness for the consideration and adoption of new testing required for genomic medicine, although they are doing so at different rates and using different approaches. 

It highlights the many challenges health systems face when required to respond quickly to a disruptive technology and underscores the differences in access to care that Canadians may experience depending on the priorities and structures of their local health regions. 

Simply knowing that a technology can promote health and welfare is not enough; responsive and resilient healthcare systems are needed—systems that can quickly shift priorities and recognize and enable high-value innovation.