Genetic Counselor

Category

Professional

City

Jackson

State

Tennessee

Shift: 8 - Day (United States of America)

Job Description Summary

To create, develop and implement specialized clinical practice in the specific area of oncology clinical genetics. Work independently and function as part of a comprehensive cancer care team in coordination with the cancer center medical director by collaborating with physicians and other health care professionals.

Under the direct supervision of the Executive Director, the genetic counselor is responsible for assigned scheduled hours and is subject to call back and overtime as required by the hospital.

Essential Job Functions

Gathers and reviews pertinent medical records, history and family history, medical literature and outside records to assess/confirm risk of genetic conditions

• Assess the risk of occurrence or recurrence of genetic conditions.
• Completes a medical history and family pedigree and interprets the data to identify risks.
• Assess patient’s physical, emotional and financial needs to plan for appropriate care.

Provide supportive counseling for patients and families to facilitate understanding of genetic conditions, and/or referral to community resources when appropriate.

Provides information about the medical genetic diagnosis, etiology, inheritance patterns and risk of occurrence.

• Completes case summaries and genetic counseling letters.
• Discusses genetic testing with families, including benefits, risks, limitations and familial implications.
• Advocates on behalf of the patients and families for the protection of the patient’s health, safety and rights.
• Performs psychosocial assessments and identifies patient education resources and support organizations.
• Documents patient encounters and genetic counseling in the medical record system.

Serves as a resource for information regarding genetic testing and identification of laboratories for send-out genetic testing.

Sees and counsels patients independently in genetic counseling clinic for appropriate referral indications and follow up results.

Recommends genetic testing in collaboration with the healthcare team. Coordinates scheduling of appointments.

Coordinates and monitors test results and reports results to the physician.

Participates in the development of the Cancer Genetics program through networking with medical providers on a local, regional, and state level.

Attends and participates in weekly cancer conferences as appropriate. Notifies Medical Director of complex patient care issues, if trending concerns are identified.

Assists with the implementation of standards based on guidelines from JCAHO, American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer, and the American College of Medical Genetics and using NCCN guidelines.

Participates in the development of assessment tools, care management guidelines, pathways and algorithms for cross continuum care of patients with cancer at all points in the care continuum

Demonstrates a visible working style, acts in a manner that is consistent with and shows commitment to the WTH values.

Performs related responsibilities as required or directed.

Job Specifications

Education

Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling is required

Licensure, Registration, Certiication

Certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics or comparable experience

Experience

3 to 4 years preferred, 0 to 2 years accepted

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrates competent clinical judgment and leadership ability
• Strong psychosocial counseling skills
• Familiarity with PCs and electronic medical record systems, or demonstrates the ability to learn

Demonstrates a visible working style, acts in a manner that is consistent with and shows commitment to the WTH values

Nondiscrimination Notice Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.