HOUSE RESOLUTION 13
(By Delegates Roop, Brooks, Cooper, and Pritt)
[March 27, 2025; Referred to the committee on Health and Human Resources then Rules ]
Urging statewide efforts to promote C-peptide testing education and training initiatives among critical care and emergency healthcare providers in Memory of Michael Brandon Cochran.
Whereas, The West Virginia House of Delegates acknowledges the profound loss experienced by families whose loved ones have suffered sudden, unexplained, or tragic medical events; and
Whereas, Michael Brandon Cochran died on February 11, 2019, from severe hypoglycemia, a condition caused by the felonious actions of his then wife, and one which could not be readily recognized by healthcare providers; and
Whereas, Severe hypoglycemia can lead to life-threatening complications including seizures, coma, and death, particularly when its cause is unknown or not readily apparent upon presentation to the hospital; and
Whereas, The C-peptide test is a medically recognized tool that may help clinicians better understand insulin activity and distinguish between naturally occurring and externally administered insulin in certain clinical circumstances; and
Whereas, Awareness of this diagnostic option, especially in complex or unexplained cases of hypoglycemia, can assist in improving patient outcomes, support accurate diagnoses, and aid in both clinical decision-making and forensic clarity when necessary; and
Whereas, Policies that promote education, voluntary clinical use, and institutional access to such diagnostic tools—without imposing penalties or unfunded mandates—best support the autonomy and expertise of West Virginia’s dedicated healthcare professionals; and
Whereas, A compassionate and collaborative approach to patient safety and diagnostic awareness ensures that hospitals and frontline providers are empowered.
Resolved by the House of Delegates:
That the House of Delegates urges statewide recognition to promote C-peptide testing education and training initiatives among critical care and emergency healthcare providers; and
Further Resolved, That the House of Delegates supports exploring no-cost funding mechanisms—such as public-private partnerships or targeted grant programs—to support clinical education and testing accessibility across all hospitals and health systems in West Virginia; and
Further Resolved, That copies of this resolution be sent to the West Virginia Department of Health Facilities, major hospital systems, and state medical associations as a show of support for patient safety and evidence-based policymaking.