While the statement covers a lot of ground, it avoids weighing in on whole-genome, or next-generation, sequencing, which scans a person’s entire genetic code rather than isolating a single gene or a handful of them. Sequencing is starting to be used to help diagnose children with mysterious illnesses, but “it’s still in flux,” says Ross, who expects that guidelines specifically addressing sequencing will eventually be issued. (Read Time.com’s entire Kids and DNA series on genome sequencing and children.)

Irons, who was not involved with developing the guidelines, says there’s a need for policies in an area that’s expanding so rapidly. “The field is headed toward next-generation sequencing for children with unknown or rare diseases, and more and more children will be offered genetic testing,” she says.

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Bonnie Rochman

Bonnie Rochman writes about pregnancy, fertility, parenting - the ups and downs of being a kid and having one - for TIME.