Genetic Counselor, Women's Specialty Center

The Genetic Counselor (GC) is a self-directed individual who functions autonomously, yet under the direction of the Director of Genetics, Women’s Specialty Center Practice Manager, and Lead Genetic Counselor.

The Genetic Counselor reviews family history, assesses genetic risk, provides patient education, discusses genetic testing options, facilitates genetic testing, coordinates follow-up, and documents appropriately in the patient’s electronic medical record.

At Stamford Health, we believe that every patient deserves compassionate, personalized, person centered care. This commitment guides how we care for patients, support their care partners, and promote the wellbeing of our staff.

In alignment with our Planetree philosophy, the individual in this role will foster a respectful, collaborative environment that honors the needs, values, and preferences of every person we serve and the colleagues we partner with.

Major Accountabilities/Critical Responsibilities

Effectively evaluates medical records/other documentation in advance of patient’s visit

• Effectively ascertains and documents relevant medical and family history
• Demonstrates knowledge of inheritance patterns, genetic conditions, currently available genetic tests (including, but not limited to, prenatal diagnostic procedures), genetic testing technologies, current standards of care, and appropriate resources

• Accurately assesses genetic risks
• Counsels patients by providing information and education regarding genetic risks and available testing options while remaining aware of schedule constraints

• Facilitates genetic testing process, including informed consent
• Maintains appropriate working relationships with genetic testing laboratories
• Communicates genetic test results and applicable standard recommendations to patients and referring providers

• Communicates implications of genetic test results for patients and family members

• Understands current laws pertaining to genetic testing and reproductive patient care

• Functions as a patient advocate displaying sensitivity to patients and their unique circumstances

• Documents genetic counseling visits, results disclosure, and other patient interactions

• Collaborates and coordinates patient care with other disciplines and medical specialties as appropriate

• Maintains accurate genetic database entries
• Responds to relevant inquiries from patients, staff, and clinicians
• Participates in Genetics meetings, Tumor Board, Cancer Committee meetings, Grand Rounds, and other meetings as required

• Applies appropriate policies and procedures according to established standards for monitoring accuracy, consistency and completeness of statistics. Maintains orderly, systematic workflow.

• Remains abreast of developments in genetics and genomics
• Provides education for medical students, resident physician staff, and/or genetic counseling students at the discretion of the Director of Genetics

• Participates in development and implementation of marketing materials and outreach programs for various audiences when applicable

• Participates in ongoing research projects as dictated by the Director of Genetics

• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested in order to maintain a high level of service

• Completes required continuous training and education, including department specific requirements

• Builds and maintains effective working relationships with others. Deals with patients, physicians, employees, and visitors with sensitivity, courtesy and respect.

• Demonstrates professional work behavior by following Service Standards and Success factors

• Complies with departmental organizational policies and procedures and adheres to external agency requirements

• Actively supports the policies, procedures and culture of Stamford Health

Competencies and Work Experience Requirements

• Experience in cancer and prenatal genetic counseling preferred
• Prior supervisory experience of students preferred
• Strong organizational as well as written and verbal communication skills required

• Must be able to work autonomously and as a member of a team
• Computer hardware and software competency required

Education Requirements (Include License, Registration, Certification)

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Master’s degree through an accredited Genetic Counseling program required
• ABGC genetic counseling board certification or board eligible status required
• Connecticut state Genetic Counseling license required