Genetic Counselor | Bilingual Candidates are welcome | Full/Part time/Per-diem | Illinois and Indiana
DirectShifts
Legal
Chicago, IL, USA
Posted 6+ months ago
DirectShifts is seeking Genetic Counselors to join our clinician community. A genetic counselor is a specialized healthcare professional who plays a crucial role in providing genetic information, guidance, and support to individuals and families facing genetic disorders, birth defects, or hereditary conditions.
Responsibilities:
- Genetic Assessment: Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' medical and family histories to identify potential genetic risks and hereditary conditions
- Genetic Testing: Determine the appropriateness of genetic testing, order tests when necessary, and interpret the results for patients and their families
- Education and Counseling: Provide clear and understandable explanations of complex genetic information to patients and their families, ensuring they have a complete understanding of the implications and options available
- Risk Assessment: Calculate and communicate the risk of developing or passing on genetic conditions based on genetic test results, family history, and other relevant factors
- Family Planning: Assist individuals and couples in making decisions about family planning, including the use of assisted reproductive technologies, prenatal testing, and adoption, taking into account their genetic risk factors
- Psychosocial Support: Offer emotional support and counseling to help individuals and families cope with the psychological and emotional aspects of genetic conditions
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, geneticists, nurses, and psychologists, to provide comprehensive patient care
- Stay Current: Stay updated on the latest advancements in genetics and genomics through continuing education and attending conferences to ensure the most up-to-date information is available to patients
- Research and Advocacy: Engage in research activities related to genetics, contribute to the development of new genetic counseling guidelines, and advocate for patients' rights and access to genetic services
- Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality of patient information and adhere to ethical and legal standards in genetic counseling practice
Requirements:
- Master's degree in Genetic Counseling from an accredited program
- Board certification or eligibility for certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) or the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG)
- Active State Licensure
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Compassion, empathy, and the ability to provide emotional support
- Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
- Knowledge of medical genetics, genomics, and ethical principles
- Proficiency in using genetic databases and software for risk assessment
- Commitment to maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality