The University of Nevada School of Medicine has as one of its missions the improvement of public health in the State of Nevada. The Genetics Division responds to this mission by activities performed in conjunction with state agencies. The State of Nevada Division of Health provides funding for clinics held at the Special Children's Clinic in both Las Vegas and Reno. Genetic staff members are involved with giving lectures to community groups regarding genetic diseases. The Genetics Division has recognized that Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is the major cause of disability in Nevada. Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are assessed in genetics diagnostic clinics, and the Division is actively working to develop a comprehensive program for FAS diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Morris and Dr. Levin are members of the Genetics Subcommittee of the Governor's Maternal and Child Health Advisory Board for the State of Nevada. This committee which has membership from consumers of genetic servives and providers of services, meet twice per year to discuss and plan long-term goals regarding genetic services in Nevada. Current activities of this committee include the special project, the PROGRAM(PRimary Obstetric Genetic Risk Assessment and Management). This pilot project, funded by Pacific Southwest Regional Genetics Network is designed to provide an office-based genetic risk assessment tool for providers of primary obstetric care in the state.
Dr. Morris is a member of the council of the Pacific Southwest Regional Genetics Network(PSRGN). PSRGN includes the states of Nevada, Hawaii, and California.