Back to Jobs
MH

Genetics Counselor at Middlesex Health

Middlesex Health Middletown, CT

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Highlights

  • Department: Comprehensive Breast Center
  • Hours: 8.00 per week
  • Shift: Shift 1


Position Summary

The genetic counselor provides risk assessment, education, counseling and psychological support to individuals and families at risk for hereditary cancer.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Under Direct Patient Contact:


  • Obtain a personal medical history and family history in the form of a pedigree.

  • Assess the risk that the patient will develop cancer, the risk that the patient carries a germline mutation in a cancer susceptibility gene, and provide educational information about the suspected hereditary cancer syndrome(s).

  • Determine if genetic testing is indicated based on national guidelines and identify the most informative test options.

  • Weigh and discuss the medical, psychological, social, and ethical impact of genetic testing including psychosocial assessment.

  • Obtain informed consent and coordinate genetic testing if it is pursued.

  • Interpret the results of genetic tests in the context of the personal and family history. Provide post-test counseling including discussion of the results, significance and impact of the test results, medical management recommendations/options based on national guidelines, informing other relatives (cascade testing), future contact and available resources.

  • Discuss screening and prevention recommendations/options based on family history and national guidelines when appropriate.

  • Maintain timely patient charting and billing submissions. Provide detailed reports for referring providers.

  • Ensure information is communicated to patients with consideration of educational level, age, culture and population specific considerations.

  • Collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals as a member of the multidisciplinary team.

  • Critically assess genetic and medical literature.

  • Plan, design and direct clinical genetic counseling protocols to meet CoC, NAPBC and other appropriate standards in collaboration with Cancer Center Management.

  • Monitor program utilization/quality on an ongoing basis and report to administration/Cancer Center management.

  • Identify and implement improvements in efficiency, quality and safety of patient care within the program.

  • Create, implement, and oversee programs to identify individuals who meet national guidelines for referral to the program in collaboration with other departments.

  • Participate in Cancer Case Conferences, Cancer Committee, Breast Leadership Committee, Breast Program Clinical Operations, and/or other Cancer Center committees which require genetics membership.

  • Supervise Genetic Counseling students as needed.

  • Participate in research activities when required including developing protocols, survey development, data gathering, writing manuscript for publication and presenting research findings at professional meetings.

  • Pursue continuing education to maintain certifications and enhance expertise.

  • Contribute to the professional development of peers through lectures, participation in departmental meetings, and as a subject matter expert.

  • Provide education to the public through presentations and written materials.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Master's degree in genetic counseling

  • Board certification by the American Board of Genetic Counselors (ABGC)

  • Exceptional communication skills


Comprehensive Benefits Offered

  • Competitive and affordable benefits package
  • Shift Differentials
  • Continuing Education assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Student Loan relief through Fiducius
  • Quick commute access from I-84, Route 9 and surrounding areas


About Middlesex Health

The Smarter Choice for your Career!

Come join one of Connecticut's Top Workplaces, and a Magnet designated organization! At Middlesex Health, we have a unique combination of award-winning talent, world-class technology, and patient-first care that's making health care better. Through our affiliation with the Mayo Clinic Care Network, Middlesex Health has access to the most advanced medical knowledge and research available.