MISSION STATEMENT

The Western States Regional Genetics Network, formerly known as the Western States Genetic Services Collaborative, is a federally-funded, multi-state project that seeks to increase access to genetic services and education for medically underserved populations. The participating states and territory are Alaska, California, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

What is the Western States Regional Genetics Network?

The Western States Regional Genetics Network, formally known as the Western States Genetic Services Collaborative, is a federally-funded project that seeks to improve access to genetic services and education for medically underserved populations. By working together as a region to increase access to and reduce disparities in clinical genetic and newborn screening services, the participating states/territory seek to improve the health of individuals with or at risk for heritable disorders.

What are the Goals and Objectives of the Network?

Goal 1: Maintain and strengthen partnerships among stakeholders in the Western States Genetics Network region to collaboratively improve access to genetic services and education for medically underserved populations.
Goal 2: Improve access to and reduce disparities in access to genetic services and education to medically underserved populations.
Goal 3: Enhance health care provider and public health professionals’ ability to use genetic information for their practices.
Goal 4: Increase the capacity of states’ and territory’s public health agencies to perform newborn screening and genetics related assessment, policy, and assurance functions.
Goal 5: Disseminate products, findings, and lessons learned.

How is the Network Funded?

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number 6 UH7MC30774-05-02, for $765,000. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.

Which States are Involved in the Network?

Six states and one U.S. territory participate in the network: Alaska, California, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. If you would like to learn more about the participating states and territory, go to State Information.

Who Staffs the Network?

The Network is administered by the Hawaii Department of Health Genomics Section. The staff listing can be found here.