HR0203 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0203 LRB102 17812 ECR 24167 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Genetic counselors empower patients and their families with vital healthcare information, guidance and emotional support to help them understand their family history, evaluate genetic testing options, and make informed choices based on test results; and

WHEREAS, There are over 150 certified genetic counselors in Illinois working in prenatal, fertility, pediatrics, metabolic, cardiovascular, neurology, and cancer care; there are 5,000 genetic counselors across the country; and

WHEREAS, Many people benefit from increased genetic sequencing research and genetic counseling, including anyone with a condition linked to a specific gene or with a family history of an inherited disease or anyone who is considering genetic testing; and

WHEREAS, Genetic counselors streamline the healthcare industry by ensuring the right tests are being ordered, avoiding costly and unnecessary costs and tests, helping patients and providers to understand complex test results and how to best use this information, helping consult potential parents on the intimidating potential of passing on inherited diseases, sharing information with family members, and providing recommendations for community support services; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that the Illinois House of Representatives recognizes that the sequencing of the human genome is one of the most significant scientific accomplishments of the past hundred years and expresses support for genetic counselors who are using this research to improve the lives of many throughout the state; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we declare November 4, 2021 as Genetic Counselor Awareness Day in the State of Illinois.