OVERVIEW

The Genetics Counsellor is a health professional with specialized training and experience in the areas of medical genetics and counselling. Genetic Counsellors work as members of a healthcare team, providing individuals and families with information on the nature, inheritance and implications of genetic disorders to help them make informed medical and personal decisions. The Genetics Counsellor works with all populations and apply broad, general knowledge of genetics to patients in different clinical care areas. and is a valued member of the care team who will help grow the program and connect with internal and external stakeholders while helping to build a program centred on excellence and best practice.

EDUCATION

• Bachelors Degree in Health Discipline/Health Administration is required.

• Master’s degree in a relevant field strongly preferred. Preference will be given to candidates with a Master of Science in Genetic Counselling

• Provincial or other vocational/professional registration/certificate required. (For example, Regulated Health Professional, Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Clinical Assistant (CA), etc.)

• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) Certification required.

• CAGC (Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors) or ABGC (American equivalent) – certified, or board-eligible at time of hire with expectation to be certified within 1 year of hire.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 3-5 years of recent, relevant experience as a Genetics Counsellor providing individuals and families with information on the nature, inheritance and implications of genetic disorders.
• Ability to deal effectively with patients and familiesin crisis
• Ability to develop educational programs and materials
• Knowledge of research processes and methodology
• Knowledge of genetic databases and information systems
• Demonstrated conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and strong communication skills required
• Demonstrated critical thinking with an ability to work synchronously and asynchronously while managing competing priorities and a complex case load
• Demonstrated commitment to patient safety and continuous quality improvement
• Demonstrated ability to think ethically, objectively, and with integrity in complex patient interactions
• Understanding of national, professional, and provincial guidelines for genetics a strong asset
• Knowledge of genetics information systems an asset
• Good work and attendance record required.
• All employees of Michael Garron Hospital (MGH), a division of Toronto East Health Network (TEHN) [formerly Toronto EastGeneral Hospital (TEGH)] agree to work within the legislated practices of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Ontario.
• All employees of MGH are responsible to contribute to a transparent culture of patient and staff safety by adhering to and abiding by patientand staff safety policies and procedures set by MGH.
• All employees are accountable for protecting the psychological health and safety of themselves and their co-workers through adherence to MGH's policies and practices.