Illinois § 5

§ 5.

Declaration of public policy. The mapping of the human genome continues to result in the rapid expansion of genetic knowledge and a proliferation of testing for genetic conditions. This has created a need for qualified genetics professionals, including genetic counselors, to coordinate an assessment, to deliver accurate information to families, to assist the families in adjusting to the implications of their diagnoses, and to help ensure that genetic information is used appropriately in the delivery of medical care. Therefore, the practice of genetic counseling is declared to affect the public health, safety, and welfare and to be subject to regulation in the public interest. The purpose of the Act is to protect and benefit the public by setting standards of qualifications, education, training, and experience for those who seek to obtain a license and hold the title of genetic counselor, to promote high standards of professional performance for those licensed to practice genetic counseling in the State of Illinois, and to protect the public from unprofessional conduct by persons licensed to practice genetic counseling. (Source: P.A. 93-1041, eff. 9-29-04.)