Genetic Counselors Salary in VA

Common tasks

• Provide counseling to patient and family members by providing information, education, or reassurance.
• Analyze genetic information to identify patients or families at risk for specific disorders or syndromes.
• Provide genetic counseling in specified areas of clinical genetics, such as obstetrics, pediatrics, oncology and neurology.
• Discuss testing options and the associated risks, benefits and limitations with patients and families to assist them in making informed decisions.
• Interview patients or review medical records to obtain comprehensive patient or family medical histories, and document findings.
• Provide patients with information about the inheritance of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and various forms of cancer.
• Interpret laboratory results and communicate findings to patients or physicians.
• Write detailed consultation reports to provide information on complex genetic concepts to patients or referring physicians.
• Read current literature, talk with colleagues, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in genetics.
• 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.