GENETIC COUNSELLOR

About the Role of Genetic Counsellor

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre in Riyadh is seeking a Genetic Counsellor to provide genetic assessment and counselling services. This full-time role involves working with individuals and families who have a medical history of, or are at increased risk of having a child with, a birth defect or genetic condition, or who are themselves at risk for a genetic disorder. The position requires 0-1 years of experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Obtain and analyze medical histories, investigation results, and consultations, considering sociocultural, psychodynamic, and ethical issues.
• Provide empathetic, non-directive prenatal, pediatric, and general genetic counselling regarding diagnosis, natural history, mode of inheritance, care plans, genetic testing, prenatal testing options, and alternative options.
• Inform and counsel patients and families through non-directive counselling, respecting ethical standards of privacy and confidentiality.
• Calculate risks (*, recurrence risk, presymptomatic diagnostic risk) by incorporating medical history, family history, genetic testing availability, and relevant test results into appropriate statistical methodologies (*, Bayesian analysis).
• Order appropriate laboratory tests under the supervision of a Senior Genetic Counsellor.
• Utilize independent judgment to critically appraise published and unpublished data on testing options for specific disorders and integrate this appraisal into genetic counselling and follow-up plans.
• Develop genetic assessment and counselling care plans in collaboration with the clinical geneticist and the patient.
• Assess individuals'/families' comprehension of information provided during counselling sessions and its integration into their decision-making process, booking follow-up sessions accordingly.
• Address issues of loss and bereavement to assist families in adjusting to a disorder in an affected member or the risk of recurrence.
• Provide written consultation summary letters to physicians, healthcare providers, and patients/families, as well as referral letters to consultative services.
• Develop standard counselling letters for various genetic disorders.

Operational Duties

• Adhere to all Hospital's related Policies and Procedures.
• Participate in self and others' education, training, and development, as applicable.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre. The role involves working within a medical team dedicated to patient care and genetic services.

Experience Required

Candidates should possess 0-1 years of relevant experience in genetic counselling.

Application Process

Salary details for this position will be disclosed during the application process.