Occupation information for Genetic Counselors District Of Columbia

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description

Assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. Provide information to other healthcare providers or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Advise individuals and families to support informed decisionmaking and coping methods for those at risk. May help conduct research related to genetic conditions or genetic counseling.

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details

Currently Employed: 40

Projected Annual Job Openings: 0

Typical Hourly Wage: $38.05 - $48.14

Typical Annual Salary: $79,140 - $100,130

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typical training

Typical education needed for entry: Master's degree

Typical work experience needed for a job in this occupation: No work experience

Typical on-the-job training once you have a job in this occupation: No on-the-job training

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typical job duties
  • Interpret laboratory results and communicate findings to patients or physicians.
  • Discuss testing options and the associated risks, benefits and limitations with patients and families to assist them in making informed decisions.
  • Analyze genetic information to identify patients or families at risk for specific disorders or syndromes.
  • Provide counseling to patient and family members by providing information, education, or reassurance.
  • Write detailed consultation reports to provide information on complex genetic concepts to patients or referring physicians.
  • Provide genetic counseling in specified areas of clinical genetics, such as obstetrics, pediatrics, oncology and neurology.
  • Determine or coordinate treatment plans by requesting laboratory services, reviewing genetics or counseling literature, and considering histories or diagnostic data.
  • Interview patients or review medical records to obtain comprehensive patient or family medical histories, and document findings.
  • Assess patients' psychological or emotional needs, such as those relating to stress, fear of test results, financial issues, and marital conflicts to make referral recommendations or assist patients in managing test outcomes.
  • Provide patients with information about the inheritance of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and various forms of cancer.
tools & technology
Tools:
  • Benchtop centrifuges
  • Cryostats
  • Darkfield microscopes
  • Deoxyribonucleic sequence analyzers
  • Ultracentrifuges

Technology:
  • Analytical or scientific software
  • Data base user interface and query software
  • Electronic mail software
  • Medical software
  • Word processing software
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