Genetic Counselor I

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on providing medical and clinical support services to patients. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Genetics duties: Studies the data and researches in order to evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower level professionals or manage processes and programs. The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An entry level role that applies broad theoretical job knowledge typically obtained through advanced education. May require the following proficiency: work is closely supervised, problems faced are not typically difficult or complex, and explains facts, policies and practices related to job area.

Job Overview

This position is responsible for counseling patients and families concerning genetic problems and serving as a resource regarding genetic issues. Works closely with patients during highly stressful times and deals with sensitive information. Participates in developing new programs related to the Genetic Counseling program. Assists in the design of databases and collects data for clinical outcome analysis as well as other quality assurance programs.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Master's degree in Genetic Counseling from an American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) accredited training program.

2. Board certification or board eligibility as a genetic counselor by the American Board of Medical Genetics or the American Board of Genetic Counseling.

3. Provisional licensure and Massachusetts license eligibility required.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. One (1) to two (2) years of genetic counseling or related counseling experience.

2. Certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABGC) in Genetic Counseling.

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Counsels patients and families concerning various genetic issues such as prenatal invasive procedures, principles of inheritance, genetic testing technologies and types of results, and Genetic Disorders. Follows up with patients as necessary.

2. Screens and interviews patients to evaluate medical/family information; recommends and coordinates additional testing and referrals. Triages patients for physicians including scheduling appointments as necessary, provides and consults basic medical related information and answers over the telephone.

3. Develops and coordinates special programs to address medical care issues concerning prenatal diagnoses of birth defects or postnatal diagnosis of genetic conditions.

4. Oversees administrative details including record-keeping, maintaining patient-related statistics, progress notes and charts, preparing encounter forms, and genetic summary forms and/or notes.

5. Serves as a resource to genetic counseling staff, patients, and providers on genetic counseling issues.

6. Collects data from medical abstractions regarding abnormalities, amniocentesis, and other genetic issues to prepare clinical reports for analysis and to support quality assurance programs.

7. Monitors trends and developments in the Genetic Counseling field as well as in the community by reading appropriate professional literature, and attending educational seminars and meetings.

8. Performs other assignments as required including attending the Bereavement Committee Conference and the subcommittee of Ethics meeting; participates in preparing the department's annual report.

9. Maintains and develops effective relationships with patients, staff and other providers.

Physical Requirements:

1. Normal office working conditions.

2. Occasional stress and pressure caused by multiple simultaneous demands.

3. Occasional requests to change work areas to cover another priority area to meet patient needs.

4. Flexibility to meet patient care needs is required.

5. Frequent contact with patients, families, visitors, nurses and other department staff.

Skills & Abilities:

1. Good communication and interpersonal skills, especially in the areas of counseling, and sensitivity to people in crisis.

2. Professional attitude in dealing with patients and staff.

3. Ability to work in stressful situations within specific time frames, while maintaining a professional and calm attitude.

4. Aptitude in basic sciences, especially in the area of genetics.

Tufts Medicine is a leading integrated health system bringing together the best of academic and community healthcare to deliver exceptional, connected and accessible care experiences to consumers across Massachusetts. Comprised of Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Hospital, Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford, Care at Home - an expansive home care network, and large integrated physician network. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity and inclusion at Tufts Medicine. Tufts Medicine does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, national origin, gender identity and/or expression, marital status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation by emailing us at careers@tuftsmedicine.org.