An Act amending the act of December 20, 1985 (P.L.457, No.112), known as the Medical Practice Act of 1985, further providing for definitions and for genetic counselor.
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Create an account to take a stance, submit a written position, or contact your legislator.
Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill amends the Medical Practice Act of 1985 to formally recognize and define the scope of practice for genetic counselors in Pennsylvania. Specifically, it adds a definition of ‘genetic test’ and expands the responsibilities of genetic counselors, allowing them to order and coordinate genetic testing, provide written documentation, and assist referring providers. The bill also clarifies that genetic counselors cannot diagnose, test, manage, or treat diseases.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘genetic test’ to include various types of genetic analysis.
- Expands the scope of practice for genetic counselors.
- Allows genetic counselors to order and coordinate genetic testing.
- Requires genetic counselors to maintain written documentation.
- Clarifies that genetic counselors cannot diagnose or treat diseases.
Who is affected
- Genetic counselors
- Patients undergoing genetic testing
- Healthcare providers
- Medical professionals
- The medical field
Notable changes
- Formal recognition and definition of genetic counselor role.
- Expanded scope of practice for genetic counselors beyond previous limitations.
Bill text
Read the latest version inline or switch to a previous version.
Document of record
- Version
- Pn 0528 Html
- Published
- Not published in the source record
This version is published only as a document. Open the viewer to read it here, or download the file.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
1 on record
Primary sponsor
Arguments
Reasons offered for and against this legislation.
Arguments in favor
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours