Position Summary

Under general supervision, provides genetic testing, education and support to patients and provides programmatic support to the departments clinical program(s).

Job Responsibilities

• Interviews patients and families to obtain relevant genetic medical and psychological information. Evaluates data supplied to determine proper plan of diagnosis or treatment.
• Explains diagnostic and screening tests and reproductive options including associated risks, benefits, and limitations. Refers patients to physicians, therapists, etc for further counseling/treatment.
• Communicates information to patients about methods used to determine carrier state in order to arrange for testing of other family members when appropriate.
• Obtains appropriate informed consent for genetic testing of patients and families as needed.
• Prepares reports, correspondence, and maintains charts with genetic information. Works with psychosocial staff to assure care and clarity in discussion with families.
• Maintains an updated pedigree for each affected patient/family. Maintains electronic and hard copy files and databases with integrity of information.
• If relevant, coordinates subject visits in the research clinics. Oversees case scheduling, physician availability for research clinic and conferences for case and project discussion.
• Obtains informed consent from research subjects as needed.
• Updates and maintains IRB protocol approvals as needed.
• Conducts literature research.
• Maintains current knowledge of field. Participates in genetic conferences and lectures sponsored by the medical college and outside community agencies.
• Performs other related duties as directed.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in related field

Experience

Certification from the American Board of Genetic Counseling preferred, inclusive of Master's degree. Approximately 1 year of related experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates knowledge of principles of human, medical, and public health genetics and genomics and their related sciences.
• Ability to employ active listening and interviewing skills to identify, assess, and empathically respond to stated and emerging concerns.
• Ability to use a range of genetic counseling skills and models to facilitate informed decision making and adaptation to genetic risks or conditions.
• Ability to promote client-centered, informed, noncoercive and value-based decision-making.
• Understanding of how to adapt genetic counseling skills for varied service delivery models.
• Ability to apply genetic counseling skills in a culturally responsive and respectful manner to all clients.
• Ability to write concise and understandable clinical and scientific information for audiences of varying educational backgrounds.

Licenses and Certifications

Board Certification or Eligible by the American Board of Genetic Counseling or American Board of Medical Genetics

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Standard office work