The Genetic Counselor reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Memorial HealthCare, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
- The Genetic Counselor is primarily responsible for providing genetic counseling to patients, working with other faculty of the Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling to provide lectures, supervision and mentoring to graduate students, and participates in the clinical research program of the section.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Analyze genetic information to identify patients or families at risk for specific disorders or syndromes.
- Explain genetic testing such as panel testing, exome sequencing, and genome sequencing..
- Provide genetic counseling in movement disorders including presymptomatic and diagnostic situations.
- Assess patients' psychological or emotional needs such as those relating to stress, fear of test results, and financial issues, to make referral recommendations or assist patients in managing test outcomes.
- Provide counseling to patient and family members by providing information, education, or reassurance.
- Determine or coordinate treatment plans by requesting laboratory services, reviewing genetics or counseling literature, and considering histories or diagnostic data.
- Discuss testing options and the associated risks, benefits and limitations with patients and families to assist them in making informed decisions.
- Interpret laboratory results and communicate findings to patients or physicians.
- Interview patients or review medical records to obtain comprehensive patient or family medical histories, and document findings.
- Research responsibilities including involvement in Movement Disorders Biorepository, PDGene, maintaining patient databases, coordinating validation of research results, and attending movement neurogenetics conference.