Genetic Counselor

Provides counseling to patients and families by direct and/or telephone contact; obtains genetic histories, assesses and evaluates pertinent risk factors; counsels patients and families about risk factors and proposed diagnostic procedures. Obtains signed consent forms, develops and records statistical data on caseload. Makes members/patients and their needs a primary focus of ones actions; develops and sustains productive member/patient relationships. Actively seeks information to understand member/patient circumstances, problems, expectations, and needs. Builds rapport and cooperative relationship with members/patients. Considers how actions or plans will affect members; responds quickly to meet member/patient needs and resolves problems.

• This position, knows and complies with all Kaiser Permanente quality, safety, and emergency policies and procedures. Demonstrates quality and effectiveness in work habits and clinical practice in every interaction with patients, colleagues, providers, and leadership. Ensures patient safety in the preparation and provisioning of care related to but not limited to medications, procedures, infection prevention, fall prevention, including consistent use of two patient identifiers and procedural time outs. Reports safety hazards, accidents and incidents, and unsafe working conditions promptly.
• Participates in departmental/regional quality assurance activities; assists supervisors in developing new or revised policies, procedures and standards.
• Develops and participates in education programs for physician, patients, families and staff. Receives and assesses calls from patients and health care providers regarding human genetics. Provides information on accessing program benefits, i.e., referral system.
• Obtains, records and documents genetic history from referred patients to prepare information about family medical background related to genetically transferable medical or developmental disabilities. Prepares case history summaries for referring provider.
• Provides counseling and obtains informed consent.
• Coordinates specimen transfer to appropriate laboratory, monitors and reports test results to provider and patient.
• Provides follow-up counseling and resources to patients when needed including referral to community support groups. Coordinates other genetic services as needed including appropriate diagnostic testing. Informs providers and patients of test results.
• Develops and implements systems to insure documentation of appointments offered and follows-up with patients who fail to keep appointments. Assists with scheduling and consultation coordination.
• Provides advice to patients about the availability, risks and limitations of genetic studies and blood tests and arranges for such tests to be conducted.
• Coordinates the establishment and implementation of standardized protocols for the identification, referral and counseling of patients and families to keep abreast of current developments in genetic counseling issues including research, screening, testing, diagnostic procedures, behavioral sciences, clinical evaluations, and referral techniques.
• Records statistical data on number of inquiries and histories obtained, number of screening, testing and diagnostic procedures performed.
• Maintains adequate inventory of supplies.