In a significant move towards enhancing healthcare access in Delaware, the Senate Health & Social Services Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 70 (SB 70), which proposes allowing licensed genetic counselors to order genetic tests independently. This legislation aims to streamline genetic testing processes, improve patient care, and align Delaware with 17 other states, including Maryland, that have already adopted similar measures.

The meeting featured strong support from various stakeholders, including Carling Ryan from the Delaware Health Care Association, who emphasized that enabling genetic counselors to order tests would not only enhance healthcare quality but also reduce costs by facilitating early disease detection. Ryan noted that this change is a top advocacy priority for the year, highlighting the importance of access to quality healthcare.

Dr. Richard Henderson, chair of the government affairs committee for the medical society, reinforced the necessity of this bill by detailing the rigorous training genetic counselors undergo, including obtaining a master's degree and passing a national certification exam. He argued that allowing these professionals to order tests would ensure appropriate test selection and accurate result interpretation, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and reduced delays in care.

Public comments during the meeting further illustrated the bill's potential impact. Louise Amlee Wolf, a genetic counselor at Nemours Children's Health, shared her experiences of how genetic counselors have saved the hospital system significant costs by guiding providers in choosing necessary tests. She advocated for SB 70, stating that it would streamline care and enhance patient understanding, particularly in the context of personalized medicine.

Krista Kroll Busch, another genetic counselor specializing in pediatric oncology, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the urgency of genetic testing in her field. She argued that allowing genetic counselors to order tests would expedite diagnoses and improve treatment outcomes for children with cancer, thereby underscoring the bill's patient-centered approach.

The discussions at the meeting highlighted a growing recognition of the vital role genetic counselors play in the healthcare system. By passing SB 70, Delaware would not only improve access to genetic testing but also enhance the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery. As the committee moves forward, the anticipated next steps include further deliberations and potential voting on the bill, which could mark a pivotal change in how genetic testing is integrated into patient care in the state.