Genetics and global health care

Objectives: To examine an alternative model for funding genetic health care, on a global basis. Methods: Internet-based national data on gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, health care funding, and public and private elements of health care costs. Results: Wide variation in GDP per capita and in the proportion available for health care funding. Insufficient funds are available in developing countries. Conclusions: Health care provision for people with genetic disorders is unlikely to be fully funded unless a different approach to management costs is undertaken. Rare genetic disorders could be funded by an insurance model which may be more equitable and which could be developed to cover the total global health care costs of the genetic disorder. Copyright © 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel.