Title 32.1. Health
Chapter 2. Disease Prevention and Control
Article 21. Sickle Cell.
§ 32.1-73.21. Adult wellness screening for sickle cell disease or the sickle cell trait.In order to prevent disability or death, every adult resident of the Commonwealth may be offered screening tests for sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait, with an emphasis on individuals of reproductive age and individuals who are unaware of their sickle cell trait status.
The health care professional in charge of the adult's annual health examination may cause such tests to be performed, and if performed, shall provide education and appropriate counseling regarding the test results.
The program for screening adults for sickle cell disease or the sickle cell trait may be conducted in addition to the programs provided for in Article 8 (§ 32.1-68 et seq.).
2024, c. 182.
§ 32.1-73.21:1. Sickle Cell Trait Awareness and Education Program.The Department shall establish and administer the Sickle Cell Trait Awareness and Education Program (the Program) to (i) conduct public awareness campaigns; (ii) provide educational resources; (iii) provide training to professionals, including health care providers, genetic counselors, school nurses, and educators; (iv) conduct community outreach; and (v) coordinate with existing infrastructure for screening and treatment of sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease. The Program shall provide information on screening services conducted pursuant to §§ 32.1-68 and 32.1-73.21 and newborn screening conducted pursuant to Article 7 (§ 32.1-65 et seq.).
2026, c. 846.