Genetics Counselor-Perinatal program

The Nemours Fetal Care Center (NFCC) and Advanced Delivery Unit are expanding the scope of service to include comprehensive prenatal, obstetrical and postpartum care for women whose unborn child has been diagnosed with a birth defect or complex medical condition that will require in utero fetal intervention or immediate multidisciplinary pediatric care in the neonatal period.

In addition to currently available prenatal imaging to diagnose these conditions, we are also expanding invasive prenatal diagnostic options and fetal intervention procedures.

Genetic counseling services include obtaining and interpreting pertinent personal and family history, participating in the clinical diagnostic process, acting as a patient and family liaison, and serving as an educator and resource for patients and their families, in-house staff, other health care professionals, and the general public.

Additionally, the genetic counselor coordinates appropriate genetic testing, discusses and obtains informed consent for genetic testing, interprets and reports test results, performs literature reviews, collaborates with laboratories and experts in the field, and provides access to follow-up referrals, resources and support as appropriate.

The genetic counselor may also participate in the development and execution of clinical research studies, manuscript/abstract preparation and scientific presentations.

Essential Functions:


* Responsible for providing current and accurate information regarding genetic testing, informed consent, results interpretation, and recommendations.


* Provides clinical care to patients inclusive of obtaining complete histories, reviewing past medical records, preparing cases, family history assessment, and coordination of diagnostic testing and follow up for individuals referred for genetic indications within the Nemours Center for Fetal Care/Advanced Delivery Unit.


* Provides appropriate risk assessment, genetic counseling, and resource identification based on family history and genetic testing/evaluation and coordinates necessary evaluations, diagnostic tests, and referrals to other specialists.


* Follow up with patients as necessary regarding the disclosure and clear explanation of test results, recommendations, and psychosocial support in person, by phone, telehealth or via electronic communication.


* Communicate with appropriate medical staff for purposes of consultation, referral, and coordination of patient care.


* Assure complete and accurate documentation related to genetic information and genetic counseling in the medical record.


* Maintain up to date knowledge regarding clinical genetics by attending educational and scientific conferences and participation in continuing education regularly with a strong emphasis on prenatal diagnosis and fetal intervention.


* May participate in teaching and supervision of genetic counseling master program students, medical students, residents and fellows.
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