Genetic Counselor I - Laboratory

Job Description Summary

Assesses risks, interprets results, provides complex medical information, and genetic counseling to patients and/or healthcare professionals in a clear and compassionate manner.

Job Description

Essential Functions

Assists in obtaining necessary patient histories and records to ensure correct test paperwork and samples are provided for genetic testing. Coordinates complex testing and ensures all required needs are met before beginning appropriate testing.

Assists in determining differential diagnosis, appropriate test selection, and plan of care with physicians. Discusses testing options available including advantages, disadvantages, risks, and limitations of the laboratory analyses.

Transmits information about genetic risks and mechanisms, assists in assimilation of information, discusses implications, and uses counseling skills and visual aids if appropriate. Provides follow-up support and additional consultation as needed.

Interprets results in collaboration with physicians or other ordering providers and discusses additional test options for patient if recommended. Answers client questions about appropriate genetic testing and how results may affect other family members of the patient. Collaborates to obtain or clarify patient information and test requests.

Tracks and manages items for clinical and research purposes. Assists in summarizing literature for patient findings.

Provides in-service education to community providers, students, and other health care professionals regarding genetic issues and testing available to patients. Maintains and updates materials for clients.

Education Requirement

Two-year Master’s degree in accredited program in Human Genetics, Genetic Counseling or a related field, required.

Licensure Requirement

Current, valid Ohio license or a supervised practice license to practice as a genetic counselor, required. License must be in place within 90 days after start date.

Certifications

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, required.

BLS Certification may be required depending on department.

Skills

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.
• 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.

Experience

Experience in genetic counseling, preferred.

Physical Requirements

OCCASIONALLY: Bend/twist, Lifting / Carrying: 0-10 lbs, Pushing / Pulling: 0-25 lbs, Reaching above shoulder, Squat/kneel, Standing

FREQUENTLY: Walking

CONTINUOUSLY: Audible speech, Color vision, Computer skills, Decision Making, Hand use: grasping, gripping, turning, Hearing acuity, Interpreting Data, Peripheral vision, Problem solving, Repetitive hand/arm use, Seeing – Far/near, Sitting

"The above list of duties is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this classification. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties performed by the individuals so classified, nor is it intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under their supervision. EOE M/F/Disability/Vet"