Genetic Counselor - Genetics Clinic
Requisition ID: 2024-52680
Category: Research
Overview
The genetic counselor is a licensed health care professional with a specialized graduate degree and experience in the areas of medical genetics and counseling. Genetic counselors work as members of a health care team, to provide genetic risk assessment, counseling, information and support to individuals and families affected with birth defects or genetic disorders, as well as those who may be at risk for a variety of inherited conditions. Genetic counselors serve as patient advocates and refer individuals and families to appropriate support services. They also serve as educators and resources for trainees, other health care professionals and the general public. Genetic counselors may engage in research activities related to the field of medical genetics and genetic counseling. Laboratory genetic counselors assist clinicians with genetic test identification, ordering, and perform duties related to result interpretation. The genetic counselor demonstrates and supports the philosophy, mission, values, standards, policies and procedures of Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Responsibilities
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Clinical Genetics/General Duties:
- Assists staff in obtaining necessary medical records and information to facilitate referral triage and scheduling.
- Obtains medical, psychosocial and family histories to help assess genetic risks and patient/family needs.
- Assists in determining differential diagnosis, appropriate test selection, and plan of care with physicians.
- Transmits information about genetic risks and mechanisms using counseling skills and visual aids if appropriate.
- Discusses testing options available including advantages, disadvantages, risks, and limitations of the laboratory analyses.
- Assists family in assimilation of the information presented, and in adjustment to its implications so that they can make appropriate decisions.
- Makes appropriate referrals to community and health care resources when necessary in collaboration with physicians.
- Interprets results in collaboration with physicians or other ordering providers. Contacts patients individually with laboratory results; answers any questions regarding their results and the implications.
- Discusses family implications of testing. Provides follow-up support and additional consultation for families members as needed.
- Summarizes findings for patient and referring physician with written or verbal communication, reviewed by the attending physician.
- Tracks and manages for clinical and research purposes.
- Provides training and supervision to genetic counseling students as appropriate and in line with level of experience.
- Provides in-service education for outreach clinics, parent and community groups, students and other health care professionals, regarding genetics issues.
- Maintains and updates patient education materials and literature for use in the clinic.
Qualifications
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- Two-year Master's degree in accredited program in Human Genetics, Genetic Counseling or a related field.
- Must hold a current, valid Ohio license or a supervised practice license to practice as a genetic counselor.
- Expertise in the principles of human genetics, including cytogenetics, molecular genetics, biochemical genetics, and human growth and development.
- Excellent interviewing and non-directive counseling skills.
- Extensive knowledge of social, legal, and ethical issues in genetics.
- Board-Certified or eligible (if graduated in the last 3 years) to sit for the Genetic Counseling Board Examination administered by the American Board of Genetic Counselors.
- Ability to draw a multigenerational pedigree, or family tree, preferably using a template as a guide.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Electronic Medical Record.
MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Sitting Frequently (34-66%) Talking in person/by phone Frequently Typing on a keyboard Frequently Standing/Walking Occasionally (0-33%) Must be able to see, hear, stoop, bend, and/or lift with or without accommodation.
EOE M/F/Disability/Vet
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