Genetic Counselor

CHILDREN'S HEALTHCARE OF ATLANTA CARDIOLOGY•Atlanta, GA

About The Position

Children’s Cardiology, a subsidiary of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, is comprised of more than 60 pediatric cardiologists providing comprehensive services for patients from before birth to age 21 who have acquired or congenital heart disease. The Genetic Counselor will assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects and provide information and education to families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions; advise individuals and families to support informed decision-making and coping methods for those at risk.

Requirements

Masters of Science in Genetic Counseling or an equivalent level of education and experience.
Certified by American Board of Medical Genetics or American Board of Genetic Counseling.
3-5 years of experience in clinical genetic counseling, pediatric cardiology preferred.
Must possess good organizational skills.
Effective oral and written communication.
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills and follow-through discipline.
Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks concurrently.
Excellent customer service skills.

Nice To Haves

3-5 years of experience in clinical genetic counseling, pediatric cardiology preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide genetic counseling, education and psychological support for those with genetic disorders, birth defects, positive newborn screening results, or who may be at risk for a variety of inherited conditions.
Interpret family medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence.
Discuss testing options and the associated risks, benefits and limitations with patients and families to assist them in making informed decisions.
Interpret laboratory results and communicate findings to patients or physicians.
Interview patients or review medical records to obtain comprehensive patient or family medical histories, and document findings.
Ensure continuity of care by communicating information concerning patient condition or need in a timely manner as evidenced by documentation.
Assist with referrals for evaluation of abnormal test results; prepare letters to the referring providers including a summary of major topics discussed in the genetic counseling sessions.
Prepare or provide genetics-related educational materials to patients or medical personnel.
Provide counseling to patient and family members by providing information, education, or reassurance; refer patients and family members to community resources.
Write detailed consultation reports to provide information on complex genetic concepts to patients or referring physicians.
Analyze genetic information to identify patients or families at risk for specific disorders or syndromes.
Determine or coordinate treatment plans by requesting laboratory services, reviewing genetics or counseling literature, and considering histories or diagnostic data.
Explain diagnostic procedures such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS), ultrasound, fetal blood sampling, and amniocentesis.
Evaluate or make recommendations for standards of care or clinical operations, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, ethics, legislation, or policies.
Design and conduct genetics training programs for physicians, graduate students, other health professions or the general community.
Other duties as assigned.