Genetic Counselor Assistant | School of Medicine - Pediatrics

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community.

Under the supervision of the departmental lead genetic counselor, the Genetic Counseling Assistant provides specialized support to clinicians including genetic counselors, physicians, and nursing staff.

 

The Genetic Counselor Assistant (GCA) will work primarily with the clinical genetic counselors (GCs) at the Cancer Predisposition Program at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center to assist with all aspects of patient care. The GCA is responsible for collaborating with the three GCs, other clinicians, patients and hospital staff in the operational functioning of the genetic counseling clinical and research activities and to meet the needs of patients and families served by the genetic counseling program.

 

SPECIFIC DETAILS:

• Clinical care (genetic testing ordering, negative result disclosures, follow-up with providers, receiving referrals, clinic confirmation calls, etc.)
• Research: Identifying appropriate patients for various open studies by screening clinic lists, ability to approach and consent patients into two currently open studies, data entry into RedCap database, etc.
• Helping GC's as needed with various tasks including but not limited to investigating genetic test options, test requisition forms entry into lab portals, reflex testing and family member testing coordination, maintaining testing kits, obtaining basic pedigree from patients by phone prior to appointment, reviewing/obtaining missing medical records, etc.
• Documentation: Prepare letters of medical necessity to obtain insurance authorization and/or provide supporting evidence as necessary related to genetic testing and genetic counseling.
• Draft components of genetic counseling visit notes, result summary letters, and other patient/family educational materials for review by GC.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Patient case preparation.
• Assist clinical staff with collection of family histories, patient medical histories, and relevant medical records and laboratory reports prior to the patient's clinic appointment.
• Ensure that relevant medical records and laboratory reports (if applicable) are accessible to clinical staff prior to the patient's appointment.
• Prepare documentation for genetic counseling and genetic evaluation.
• Construct and/or update pedigrees prior to clinic appointments.
• Assist genetic counselors with processing documentation for recommended genetic testing.
• Obtain pre-authorization for testing and other medical services.
• Prepare letters of medical necessity with guidance from genetic counselors.
• Track genetic test results and contact laboratories to determine status of all genetic tests that are ordered when turnaround times are exceeded.
• Under the supervision of genetic counselors, contact patients with normal genetic results and document records of result disclosure conversations in the patient's electronic medical record.
• Perform clerical duties (faxing, filing, mailing, copying etc.) and assist with educational and administrative projects.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, psychology or related field of study.
• Combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of degree.
• Skilled in use of Microsoft Office software, operation of standard office equipment.
• Must be able to communicate on a professional level with members of the Department of Human Genetics' clinical, operations and administration staff.
• Interpersonal skills and organizational ability are key qualifications.
• Must adhere to clinic standard operating procedures and actively participate in the quality and safety requirements of the Emory Clinic.
• Interest in pursuing a career in human genetics, genetic counseling, medical discipline and healthcare.
• Work experience in a medical facility.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office software, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience with RedCap preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both over the telephone and in person.
• Ability to deal sensitively and effectively with patients and other team members.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work well both independently, with little supervision, and in a team setting.

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

Emory University is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran's status. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment on the basis of any factor stated above or prohibited under applicable law. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in University programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Executive Order 11246, as amended, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. Emory University is committed to achieving a diverse workforce through application of its affirmative action, equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policy in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Inclusion, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322.
Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week advance notice is preferred.

Not ready to apply? Connect with us for general consideration!