Genetic Counselor

Overview

The genetic counselor provides genetic education, counseling, and support to patients and/or families who may be at risk for inherited conditions in the cancer genetics clinic. The counselor works as part of a multidisciplinary team including primary care physicians, advanced practice providers, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists. The counselor provides intake for referrals, collects data from patients and their families, develops pedigrees and determines the statistical risk based on the pedigree for the genetic markers available for a variety of specific cancers and other diseases.

The genetic counselor will then provide consultation regarding testing and the follow up/outcome from the test results. Information is provided back to patient, families and referring physicians for proper follow up. This position provides services throughout the health system, and travel may be required to the various member locations.

• ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (80%). Assesses family and medical history and counsels patients and/or families in cases of cancer genetic disorders. Educate patients on potential hereditary cancer genes, associated cancers risks and management options. Discusses benefits and limitations of genetic testing options. Obtains informed consent from interested patients. Provide interpretation of genetic test results and communicate to patient and providers, including information regarding cancer risks and management options, as well as implications for family members.
  
  Documents in patient charts and develops follow-up recommendations for patient; documents case and maintains appropriate records, ensuring confidentiality.
• (10%). Participates in breast, colorectal, general, and thoracic cancer conferences. Participates in Cancer Committee and other accreditation leadership teams.
• (10%). Promote the genetic counseling program through education of referring providers and the communities served on appropriate referrals and use of genetic counseling and testing. May participate in community education programs or medical staff CME events.

• Works with insurance companies for prior authorization for genetic counseling and testing.
• Coordinate genetic testing following initial counseling session if they choose to be tested.
• Disclose results from genetic testing to patients and their families and assist with referrals for any needed services or follow up based on the test results.
• Maintain accurate, complete and timely documentation of all patient encounters.
• Have a presence in both the professional and general communities to ensure high visibility of the My Michigan Health Programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

• CGC: Certified Genetic Counselor
• Certification must be obtained within 12 months of hire or transfer to the position and maintained.
• GC: Licensed Genetic Counselor
• Licensed genetic counselor. Temporary licensure with the state of Michigan is required at the time of hire. Full licensure is required within one year of hire.
• BLS: Basic Life Support
• Within 1 month of hire or transfer.

A Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling required.

• Required Equivalent
  
  Experience:
  
  3-5 years experience in Cancer Genetics preferred.
• Complete/Pass Genetic Counseling Boards within 2 years of hire.
• Computer skills required in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and Power Point.
• Problem solving skills, ability to work as a team, excellent phone skills, and strong communication skills.
• My Michigan Health is a technology driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft Windows. An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by My Michigan Health.
• Experience as a genetic counselor in the area of adult oncology preferred.
• Board certified in Genetic Counseling at hire, preferred.
• Experience with public speaking preferred.