Newborn Blood Spot Genetic Counselor

Employment Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, vision, and additional coverage
• Sick & Vacation leave
• Work-Life Balance programs : parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave
• Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually)
• Fitness Centers in select locations
• Employee discounts with the
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs

Position Summary & Responsibilities

Position Summary :

The position (K0245986)

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has a Newborn Blood Spot (NBS) Genetic Counselor opening in our Kansas Newborn Screening Follow-Up Program.

In this part-time, fully remote role, the incumbent will be responsible for communicating directly with families to discuss newborn screening results and the implications of genetic conditions.

The incumbent will collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure clear and effective communication of complex genetic information.

Duties will also include responding to inquiries from families and providers regarding screening results, providing expert guidance and support, and assisting with the collection and evaluation of data for program planning.

By offering tailored genetic counseling and supporting families in accessing specialized care, this position will play a vital role in promoting health equity across Kansas.

Job Responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following :

Provide comprehensive counseling to families regarding the diagnosis, implications, and management options for hemoglobin disorders.

Work closely with healthcare providers to ensure clear, compassionate, and accurate communication, helping families understand the condition and its impact on their child's health and future.

Educate families about the nature of hemoglobin traits, including the genetic inheritance patterns, potential health implications, and the importance of family testing.

Offer support and resources to help families make informed decisions and manage any health concerns related to hemoglobin traits.

Explain the significance of carrier status for lysosomal storage disorders to families, including the genetic implications and potential risks for future pregnancies.

Collaborate with healthcare providers to provide tailored counseling and support, addressing any immediate concerns and long-term considerations.

Discuss the findings of pseudodeficiency alleles with families, clarifying the difference between pseudodeficiency and disease.

Assist healthcare providers in delivering this complex information, ensuring families understand the results and their implications for their child's health and development.

Serve as a primary point of contact for families and healthcare providers seeking clarification and additional information on newborn screening results.

Provide expert interpretation of screening results, addressing any questions or concerns with accurate, clear, and empathetic communication.

Offer detailed explanations of the implications of various screening results, including the potential need for further testing, follow-up care, and genetic counseling.

Ensure timely and thorough responses to inquiries, supporting families in understanding the next steps and alleviating anxiety associated with ambiguous or unexpected results.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge on advancements in newborn screening and genetic conditions to provide the most current information and guidance.

Qualifications

• Education : Master's Degree in Health, Healthcare, Genetics, Public Health, or related field.
• Licensing & Certification : Valid Driver's License - Incumbent is required to have and maintain a valid driver's license when operating a state vehicle, a private vehicle, or a rental vehicle for the benefit of the State.
• Minimum Qualifications : Master's Degree in Health, Healthcare, Genetics, Public Health, or related field. Current American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) certification.

Professional experience in genetic counseling, preferably in pediatric or newborn screening. Experience in family engagement or customer service.

Case management experience. Teamwork and collaboration. Knowledge of social services or community supports. Proofreading, editing, attention to detail.

Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access. Proficiency in interpreting complex genetic information and providing clear communication to diverse audiences including families, healthcare providers, and interdisciplinary teams.

Strong understanding of genetic conditions and the implications for medical management and patient care. Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills to ensure accurate and thorough follow-up and case management.

Ability to work independently and remotely, demonstrating self-motivation and effective time management. Commitment to health equity and providing accessible care to underserved populations.