The genetic counselor provides risk assessment, education, counseling and psychological support to individuals and families at risk for hereditary cancer.
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Obtain a personal medical history and family history in the form of a pedigree.
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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).
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Determine if genetic testing is indicated based on national guidelines and identify the most informative test options.
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Weigh and discuss the medical, psychological, social, and ethical impact of genetic testing including psychosocial assessment.
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Obtain informed consent and coordinate genetic testing if it is pursued.
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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.
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Discuss screening and prevention recommendations/options based on family history and national guidelines when appropriate.
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Maintain timely patient charting and billing submissions. Provide detailed reports for referring providers.
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Ensure information is communicated to patients with consideration of educational level, age, culture and population specific considerations.
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Collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals as a member of the multidisciplinary team.
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Critically assess genetic and medical literature.
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Plan, design and direct clinical genetic counseling protocols to meet CoC, NAPBC and other appropriate standards in collaboration with Cancer Center Management.
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Monitor program utilization/quality on an ongoing basis and report to administration/Cancer Center management.
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Identify and implement improvements in efficiency, quality and safety of patient care within the program.
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Create, implement, and oversee programs to identify individuals who meet national guidelines for referral to the program in collaboration with other departments.
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Participate in Cancer Case Conferences, Cancer Committee, Breast Leadership Committee, Breast Program Clinical Operations, and/or other Cancer Center committees which require genetics membership.
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Supervise Genetic Counseling students as needed.
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Participate in research activities when required including developing protocols, survey development, data gathering, writing manuscript for publication and presenting research findings at professional meetings.
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Pursue continuing education to maintain certifications and enhance expertise.
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Contribute to the professional development of peers through lectures, participation in departmental meetings, and as a subject matter expert.
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Provide education to the public through presentations and written materials.
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